A nurse is teaching a school-age child and their parents about managing diabetes mellitus during illness. The nurse should determine that the teaching has been effective when the parents indicate they will provide which of the following when the child is ill?

A. Preschoolers believe their illness is punishment for their misbehavior:This statement is true. Preschool-aged children often have a limited understanding of illness and may associate it with punishment. They might think that their illness is a consequence of something they did wrong. As a nurse, it’s essential to address these misconceptions and provide age-appropriate explanations to help them understand their condition better.

B. Preschoolers are interested in what happens to the body after death: Preschoolers may have curiosity about death and what happens afterward, but their understanding is typically limited. They may ask simple questions about death and may need age-appropriate explanations about the concept. Providing information in a sensitive and honest manner can help address their curiosity and alleviate fears.

C. Adolescents worry more about death than the physical changes that can occur as a result of the illness: Adolescents facing terminal illness may have complex emotions and concerns about both death and the physical changes associated with their illness. It's important to acknowledge and address both aspects of their experience, providing opportunities for adolescents to express their feelings and concerns in a supportive environment.

D. Toddlers personify death as being a type of monster: Toddlers often have limited understanding of death and may personify it in different ways, including as a monster or some other abstract concept. It's essential for guardians to provide comfort and reassurance to toddlers who may experience fear or confusion about death. Providing simple and concrete explanations about death, tailored to their developmental level, can help alleviate anxiety.

A. "What are your reasons for making this decision today?"

This response demonstrates active listening and allows the parent to express their reasons for wanting to discontinue treatment. It opens up a dialogue between the nurse and the parent, which is important for understanding their perspective.

B. "You should discuss your concerns with your child's provider."

While it's important for the parent to communicate with the child's healthcare provider, this response may come across as dismissive of the parent's concerns and decision-making process.

C. "You should give the treatment a chance to work before giving up."

This response may seem judgmental and dismissive of the parent's feelings and autonomy. It does not address the parent's concerns and may further strain the nurse-parent relationship.

D. "Do you need assistance gathering your child's belongings to return home?"

This response is practical but does not address the underlying reasons for the parent's desire to discontinue treatment. It's important for the nurse to engage in therapeutic communication and explore the parent's concerns further.