A school-age child is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness.The parents want to protect their child from knowing the seriousness of the illness.The nurse should explain that:
A)This will help the child cope effectively by denial.
B)This attitude is helpful to give parents time to cope.
C)Terminally ill children know when they are seriously ill.
D)Terminally ill children usually choose not to discuss the seriousness of their illness.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The child needs honest and accurate information about the illness,treatments,and prognosis.Children,even at a young age,realize that something is seriously wrong and that it involves them.The nurse should help parents understand the importance of honesty.The child will know that something is wrong because of the increased attention of health professionals.This would interfere with denial as a form of coping.Parents may need professional support and guidance from a nurse or social worker in this process.Children will usually tell others how much information they want about their condition.

A School-Age Child Is Diagnosed with a Life-Threatening Illness