Question

A community health nurse is assessing an 18-month-old toddler in a community day care. Which of the following findings should a nurse identify as a potential indication of physical neglect?

A. Adequate clothing for the weather.
B. Age-appropriate toys and activities.
C. Consistent attendance at the day care.
D. Poor personal hygiene and unwashed clothing.

Answer 1

A potential indication of physical neglect in an 18-month-old toddler is poor personal hygiene and unwashed clothing.

Step-by-step explanation:

A potential indication of physical neglect in an 18-month-old toddler is poor personal hygiene and unwashed clothing (Option D). This finding suggests that the child is not being adequately taken care of in terms of cleanliness and personal care.

Physical neglect refers to the failure of caregivers to provide for a child's basic physical needs, including hygiene, cleanliness, and appropriate clothing. It can occur due to various reasons such as cultural values, poverty, and lack of access to services.

Examples of poor personal hygiene and unwashed clothing in an 18-month-old toddler may include visibly dirty and disheveled appearance, persistent body odor, unchanged diapers or soiled clothes, and uncleaned dirt or food residue on the child's body.

It is important for a community health nurse to identify potential indications of physical neglect in order to ensure the well-being and safety of the toddler. The nurse should assess the situation further, communicate with the child's caregivers, and involve appropriate child welfare services if necessary.