A 3-year-old child is hospitalized after a near-drowning accident.The child's mother complains to the nurse,"This seems unnecessary when he is perfectly fine." What is the nurse's best reply?
A) "He still needs a little extra oxygen."
B) "I'm sure he is fine, but the doctor wants to make sure."
C) "The reason for this is that complications could still occur."
D) "It is important to observe for possible central nervous system problems."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

All children who have a near-drowning experience should be admitted to the hospital for observation.Although many children do not appear to have suffered adverse effects from the event,complications such as respiratory compromise and cerebral edema may occur up to 24 hours after the incident.Aspiration pneumonia is a frequent complication that occurs about 48 to 72 hours after the episode.Stating that,"He still needs a little extra oxygen" does not respond directly to the mother's concern.Why is her child still receiving oxygen? The nurse should clarify that different complications can occur up to 24 hours later and that observations are necessary.The nurse should not provide statements that provide unfounded information,like "I'm sure he is fine."

A 3-Year-Old Child Is Hospitalized After a Near-Drowning Accident