A nurse is preparing to perform a physical assessment on a toddler. Which approach should the nurse use for this child?
A) Always proceed in a head-to-toe direction.
B) Perform traumatic procedures first.
C) Use minimal physical contact initially.
D) Demonstrate use of equipment.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Parents can remove clothing, and the child can remain on the parent's lap. The nurse should use minimal physical contact initially to gain the child's cooperation. The head-to-toe assessment can be done in older children but usually must be adapted in younger children. Traumatic procedures should always be performed last. These will most likely upset the child and inhibit cooperation. The nurse should introduce the equipment slowly. The child can inspect the equipment, but demonstrations are usually too complex for toddlers.

A Nurse Is Preparing to Perform a Physical Assessment on a Toddler