A 16-year-old boy has a stiff neck, a headache, a fever of 103° Fahrenheit, and purpuric lesions on his legs. He is admitted to the hospital for treatment of suspected meningococcemia. Although the adolescent's physical needs take priority at the present time, the nurse can expect which of the following to be the most significant psychological stressor for this adolescent?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most significant psychological stressor for an adolescent with suspected meningococcemia, who is experiencing symptoms like a stiff neck, headache, fever, and purpuric lesions, is likely to be "separation from friends and permanent changes in appearance." Adolescents are highly concerned with their social lives and physical appearance, and the prospect of changes or damage to their appearance can be particularly distressing, impacting their self-esteem and social interactions.

A 16-Year-Old Boy Has a Stiff Neck, a Headache, a Fever