The nurse is caring for a hospitalized 4-year-old boy. His parents tell the nurse that they will be back to visit at 6 PM. When the child asks the nurse when his parents are coming, the nurse's best response is

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A 4-year-old child understands time in relation to events such as meals. Children perceive "soon" as a very short time. The nurse may lose the child's trust if his parents do not return in the time he perceives as "soon." Children cannot read or use a clock for practical purposes until age 7 years. I will tell you every time I see you how much longer it will be assumes the child understands the concepts of hours and minutes, which are not developed until age 5 or 6 years.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Hospitalized 4-Year-Old Boy