The parent of a -year-old child tells the nurse, "Bedtime is difficult. I can't get my son to go to bed at night.”. The nurse and the child's mother discuss options.
What intervention is the most appropriate choice?

Choice A rationale:

Introducing solid foods to infants is an essential step in their development. The nurse should advise a parent to introduce each new food 4 to 7 days apart. This recommendation is based on the principles of food introduction and infant nutrition. By introducing new foods with this time gap, parents can monitor for any adverse reactions or allergies that may occur. It allows for the identification of potential food sensitivities, making it easier to determine the cause if the child develops any adverse reactions. This cautious approach ensures the safety and well-being of the child while also helping to establish healthy eating habits from a young age.

Choice B rationale:

Mixing foods together is not recommended when introducing solid foods to infants. This approach can make it challenging to identify the cause of any adverse reactions or allergies. If a parent mixes multiple foods and the child has a negative reaction, it becomes difficult to pinpoint which specific food caused the problem. Therefore, it's best to introduce one food at a time, as advised in choice A, to monitor the child's response effectively.

Choice C rationale:

Eliminating a refused food from the diet is not a suitable approach for introducing solid foods to infants. Refusing a new food is a common response in infants who are still getting used to the taste and texture of solid foods. It's important not to eliminate the food altogether, as it may take several attempts before the child accepts it. Parents should be encouraged to reintroduce the refused food at a later time. The focus should be on gradual exposure and persistence.

Choice D rationale:

Beginning with one tablespoon of food is not a recommended approach. Infants should start with small amounts of solid foods and gradually increase the quantity as they become more accustomed to the new textures and flavors. Starting with a larger portion can overwhelm the child and may lead to refusal or choking. A gradual introduction, as suggested in choice A, is a safer and more appropriate method.

Choice A rationale:

Allowing the child to read in his room until he falls asleep may not be the most appropriate choice in this situation. While reading can be a calming bedtime activity, it might not address the underlying issue of establishing a consistent bedtime routine. Additionally, letting a child read until they fall asleep could lead to irregular sleep patterns.

Choice B rationale:

Tiring out the child with physical activity before bedtime might seem like a good idea to promote sleep, but it's not always effective for all children. Physical activity close to bedtime may have the opposite effect, making the child more alert and active. It's essential to focus on a combination of calming activities and a consistent bedtime routine.

Choice D rationale:

Allowing the child to put himself to bed when he is tired can lead to inconsistent sleep patterns and may not be suitable for a young child. Children thrive on routine and structure, and it's important to establish a bedtime routine that provides a sense of security and predictability. Allowing a child to decide when to go to bed can disrupt this routine.