NCLEX: A 2-year-old toddler in the emergency department is being evaluated for pediatric injury prevention. Assessment d…

Pediatric nursing Health Promotion and Maintenance Physiological Adaptation

Case Study

A 2-year-old toddler in the emergency department is being evaluated for pediatric injury prevention. Assessment data include pulling at ears and crying with tugging on the right ear. Which assessment approach should the nurse use first?

Question

A. Screen for instability, then perform a focused assessment related to the presenting concern.
B. Begin invasive procedures before any focused assessment.
C. Use only the chart from admission without current data.
D. Defer assessment until all medications are administered.

Rationale

Correct answer: A. Screen for instability, then perform a focused assessment related to the presenting concern.

Rationale: Assessment begins with stability screening and focused data collection before invasive or delayed actions.

Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.

Level: Advanced

Difficulty: Hard

Subtopic: Child safety