NCLEX: A 2-year-old toddler in the emergency department is being evaluated for febrile illness in a toddler. Assessment…

Pediatric nursing Health Promotion and Maintenance Physiological Adaptation

Case Study

A 2-year-old toddler in the emergency department is being evaluated for febrile illness in a toddler. Assessment data include temperature 103.1°F (39.5°C) with a new petechial rash. Which nurse response best supports psychosocial integrity?

Question

A. False reassurance that nothing is wrong.
B. Changing the subject when the client expresses fear.
C. Promising outcomes that cannot be guaranteed.
D. Therapeutic presence, active listening, validation, and suicide or violence screening when indicated.

Rationale

Correct answer: D. Therapeutic presence, active listening, validation, and suicide or violence screening when indicated.

Rationale: Psychosocial integrity items reward therapeutic communication and appropriate safety screening, not avoidance or false promises.

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

Level: Foundational

Difficulty: Easy

Subtopic: Pediatric vital signs