While being comforted in the emergency department, the 6-year-old male sibling of a pediatric trauma victim blurts out to the nurse, "It's all my fault! When we were fighting yesterday, I told him I wished he was dead!" Which response by the nurse is most therapeutic?
A) Asking the child if he would like to sit down and drink some water
B) Sitting the child down in an empty room with markers and paper so that he can draw a picture
C) Reassuring the child that it is normal to get angry and say things that we do not mean, but that we have no control over whether an accident happens
D) Discussing the catheters, tubes, and equipment that the sibling requires, and explaining why they are needed

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Reassuring the child that it is normal to get angry and say things that we do not mean, but that we have no control over whether an accident happens is the most therapeutic response. This validates the child's feelings and helps to alleviate any guilt or self-blame the child may be experiencing. Choice A may be helpful in calming the child, but does not address the underlying issue. Choice B may be a helpful activity later on, but does not address the immediate emotional distress. Choice D is not relevant to the child's emotional need for reassurance and validation.

While Being Comforted in the Emergency Department, the 6-Year-Old Male