The father of a 12-year-old child tells the nurse that he is concerned about his son getting "fat." His son is at the 50th percentile for height and the 75th percentile for weight on the growth chart. What is the most appropriate nursing action?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This is a characteristic pattern of growth in preadolescent boys, where the growth in height has slowed in preparation for the pubertal growth spurt, but weight is still gained. The nurse should review this with both the father and the child and develop a plan to maintain physical exercise and a balanced diet. It is false reassurance to tell the father that his son is not fat. His weight is high for his height. The child needs to maintain his physical activity. The father is concerned, so an explanation is required. A nutritional diet with physical activity should be sufficient to maintain his balance.

The Father of a 12-Year-Old Child Tells the Nurse That