Final answer:
Decreased attention-seeking behavior is not a direct indicator of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); the nurse should look for symptoms like flashbacks, avoidance, negative mood changes, and increased arousal and reactivity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The school nurse assessing a school-age child for indications of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) would be looking for various symptoms that are consistent with the disorder. Decreased attention-seeking behavior alone does not necessarily indicate PTSD.
Common symptoms of PTSD in children include re-experiencing the traumatic event through flashbacks or nightmares, avoidance of reminders related to the trauma, negative changes in thoughts and mood associated with the event, and marked changes in arousal and reactivity, such as being easily startled or having difficulty concentrating. It is important to note that PTSD is a complex condition and can manifest differently in children as compared to adults, with some children exhibiting changes in play, exhibiting behaviors that reenact the trauma, or displaying intense emotional reactions.