A nurse is providing care to a 2-year-old and has noted negativism.
Which statement by the nurse to the toddler will help decrease negativism when administering medications to the toddler?
You can take your medicine in the blue or green cup.
Can you take your medicine now?
Do you want to take your medicine?
You need to take your medicine.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Giving the toddler a choice between two cups helps to decrease negativism by providing options that still achieve the desired outcome, thereby reducing the likelihood of refusal.
Choice B rationale
Asking the child to take medicine now offers no real choice and is likely to be met with resistance, which is characteristic of negativism in toddlers.
Choice C rationale
This question is too open-ended and can easily be refused, as it does not provide a sense of control or choice for the toddler.
Choice D rationale
Telling the child they "need" to take medicine is directive and authoritarian, which often triggers negativism and a refusal.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
This choice offers the toddler control and options within boundaries. By allowing the child to choose between two cups, it reduces the power struggle inherent in negativism, where the child often says "no" to assert independence.
Choice B rationale
This choice presents a direct option of now or later, which may still lead to refusal due to the toddler's negativism. Toddlers often respond better to choices that are less direct.
Choice C rationale
Asking if the child can take the medicine is likely to result in a "no" due to the nature of negativism at this developmental stage. It does not give the toddler a sense of control or choice.
Choice D rationale
Asking the child to be "good" places a moral judgment on taking the medicine, which is not developmentally appropriate and may lead to resistance.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While knowing the adverse effects of medication is important, understanding why the child is taking the medication is crucial for ensuring adherence and proper administration.
Choice B rationale
Stopping medication when the child feels better can lead to incomplete treatment and antibiotic resistance. This is incorrect advice to give to parents.
Choice C rationale
Knowing the reason for taking the medication ensures that parents understand its importance, which promotes adherence to the prescribed regimen.
Choice D rationale
Using a kitchen spoon to administer medication can lead to inaccurate dosing. A proper measuring device, such as an oral syringe, should be used.