What is the nurse’s best approach when an 8-year-old boy frequently causes a disruption in the playroom by taking toys from other children?

a.
Exclude the child from the playroom.
b.
Explain to the children in the playroom that he is very ill and should be allowed to have the toys.
c.
Approach the child in his room and ask, “Would you like it if the other children took your toys from you?”
d.
Approach the child in his room and state, “I am concerned that you are taking the other children’s toys. It upsets them and me.”

ANS: D

The nurse can focus on the behavior most effectively by using “I” rather than “you” messages. A “you” message criticizes the child and uses guilt in an attempt to change behavior. Banning the child from the playroom will not solve the problem. The problem is the child’s behavior, not the place where the child exhibits it. Illness is not a reason for a child to be undisciplined. When the child recovers, the parents will have to deal with a child who is undisciplined and unruly. The child should not be made to feel guilty and to have his or her self-esteem attacked.