The nurse is assessing the lung sounds of a preschooler. Which action should the nurse implement to ensure the child’s cooperation?
A.
Have the child blow a cotton ball and have the parent catch it.
B.
Place a toy in the child’s hands while listening to the breath sounds.
C.
Offer the child bubbles before the stethoscope is placed.
D.
Allow the child to use a stethoscope on a stuffed animal.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: D. Allow the child to use a stethoscope on a stuffed animal.
Explanation:
When assessing the lung sounds of a preschool-aged child, it is crucial to gain the child’s cooperation to ensure an accurate assessment. Preschoolers, typically aged 3 to 5 years, are at a developmental stage where they are highly curious, imaginative, and often enjoy play. Engaging them in a playful and interactive manner can significantly reduce anxiety and promote cooperation during medical procedures.
Option D, allowing the child to use a stethoscope on a stuffed animal, is the most effective approach. This strategy capitalizes on the child’s natural curiosity and desire to play. By allowing the child to “examine” a stuffed animal, the nurse not only makes the process less intimidating but also empowers the child by giving them a sense of control. This approach turns the assessment into a game, making it less stressful and more enjoyable for the child. Additionally, it helps the child understand what the nurse is doing, reducing fear of the unknown.
Option A, having the child blow a cotton ball while the parent catches it, could be helpful if the nurse needed to assess the child’s respiratory effort or ability to follow commands, but it does not directly facilitate auscultation of lung sounds. The child might be distracted or may not hold still enough for the nurse to listen accurately.
Option B, placing a toy in the child’s hands while listening to breath sounds, may help in keeping the child distracted and calm, but it does not actively engage the child in the procedure. This could lead to less cooperation, as the child might not fully understand what is happening.
Option C, offering bubbles before placing the stethoscope, might calm the child, but blowing bubbles could alter the breathing pattern, making it difficult to accurately assess lung sounds. It may also not hold the child’s attention long enough for a thorough assessment.
In conclusion, Option D is the best choice because it actively involves the child in a playful and educational way, ensuring better cooperation and a more accurate lung sound assessment. This method aligns with the developmental needs of preschoolers, making the experience positive and less frightening for the child.