Anxiety Disorders and Stress Q 29
The primary nursing intervention for a victim of child abuse is:
A. Assess the scope of the problem.
B. Analyze the family dynamics.
C. Ensure the safety of the victim.
D. Teach the victim coping skills.
Correct Answer: C. Ensure the safety of the victim
The priority consideration is the safety of the victim. Attend to the physical injuries to ensure the physiologic safety and integrity of the child. Reporting suspected cases of abuse may deter the recurrence of abuse. Encourage expression of concerns and fears of the child regarding environment and management; Grant questions and provide honest explanations and communication at the level of the child’s age. Provides an opportunity to release feelings that can decrease anxiety.
Option A: Assess level of anxiety and fear in the child and how it is manifested; Determine the source of anxiety and note reactions to staff and parents at each contact. Provides information about the source and level of anxiety and what might relieve it and basis to judge the improvement.
Option B: Assess parents for the achievement of developmental tasks of self and understanding of child’s growth and development; how they are bonded and attached to the child; how they interpret and respond to the child; how they accept and support the child; how they meet the child’s social, psychological and physical needs. Provides information about parent-child relationship and parenting styles that may lead to child abuse; identifies parents at risk for violence or other abusive behavior.
Option D: Provide a play program with other children; set aside time to be alone with the child or quiet time for the child as well; praise the child or reward with a special treat when appropriate. Modifies negative behavior by promoting interactions with others and rewarding desired behaviors; promotes self-esteem. Use a therapeutic play kit to instruct the child in any procedure to be done (dolls, syringe, tubing, dressing, other articles, specify). Reduces anxiety by familiarizing the child with what to expect to reduce anxiety.