The nurse observed three toddlers playing side by side with dolls. Closer observation revealed that the children were not interacting with one another.
What type of play is this?

Choice A rationale:

The statement, "There are locks on all of the cabinets in the house," indicates a safe behavior. Locking cabinets helps prevent access to potentially harmful substances, reducing the risk of accidents for the child.

Choice B rationale:

The statement, "I have a gate at the top and bottom of the stairs," also indicates a safe behavior. Gates are important safety measures to prevent falls down the stairs, which can be dangerous for infants and young children.

Choice C rationale:

The statement, "I put covers on all of the electrical outlets," is another indicator of a safe behavior. Covering electrical outlets is essential to prevent children from inserting objects into them, reducing the risk of electrical accidents.

Choice D rationale:

The statement, "In the car, she rides in a front-facing car seat," indicates an unsafe behavior. For a 9-month-old infant, it is recommended to use a rear-facing car seat as they provide better support for the child's head, neck, and spine in the event of sudden stops or crashes. Front-facing car seats are typically suitable for older children. Therefore, this choice represents an unsafe practice that should be corrected.

Choice A rationale:

Young children often understand that other people die, but do not equate it with themselves. Young children typically begin to grasp the concept of death, but they often don't fully understand it in the same way adults do. Their understanding of death tends to be more external, and they may not relate it to themselves. The nurse's response should be guided by this understanding because it helps in communicating with and supporting children when they encounter the death of a loved one. By recognizing that children may not see death as an immediate threat to themselves, the nurse can provide age-appropriate explanations and reassurance, addressing the child's concerns and fears. It's crucial to be sensitive to the child's emotional state and offer comfort and support as needed.

Choice B rationale:

Children can understand the concept of a higher being much like adults can. While children may have some understanding of the concept of a higher being, their understanding is often simpler and less abstract than that of adults. It's important for the nurse to acknowledge a child's spirituality and beliefs when discussing death, but it's not the primary understanding that guides the nurse's response. The primary focus should be on the child's understanding of death itself and how it may affect them or their loved ones.

Choice C rationale:

The children's response will depend entirely on whether they have been acquainted with death before this. While prior exposure to death may influence a child's response, it is not the sole determining factor. Even children who have not experienced death before may still have various emotional reactions when a loved one dies. The nurse should approach each child individually, taking into consideration their unique experiences and emotions rather than relying solely on past exposure to death.

Choice D rationale:

Children are unlikely to notice their grandmother's absence if no one reminds them. This choice is not an appropriate understanding to guide the nurse's response. Children are likely to notice the absence of a loved one, especially a grandmother, regardless of whether someone reminds them. They may not fully understand the implications of death, but they will notice the change in their daily life and routines. It is essential to support and communicate with them during this period rather than assume they won't notice the absence.