What is the most appropriate response for the nurse to make to the parent of a 3-year-old child found in a bed with the side rails down?

What is the most appropriate response for the nurse to make to the parent of a 3-year-old child found in a bed with the side rails down?

a.
“You must never leave the child in the room alone with the side rails down.”
b.
“I am very concerned about your child’s safety when you leave the side rails down. The hospital has guidelines stating that side rails need to be up if the child is in the bed.”
c.
“It is hospital policy that side rails need to be up if the child is in bed.”
d.
“When parents leave side rails down, they might be considered as uncaring.”

ANS: B

To express concern and then choose words that convey a policy is appropriate. Framing the communication in the negative does not facilitate effective communication. Stating a policy to parents conveys the attitude that the hospital has authority over parents in matters concerning their children and may be perceived negatively. No statement should convey blame and judgment to the parent.