Question

A school nurse is assessing a school-age child who experienced traumatic loss of a parent 8 months ago. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication that the child is experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder?

a) Recurrent nightmares about the parent's death
b) Increased appetite and weight gain
c) Improved academic performance
d) Heightened social interaction

Answer 1

Recurrent nightmares about a parent's death is an indication that a child may be experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder following a traumatic event.

Step-by-step explanation:

A school nurse assessing a child who suffered the traumatic loss of a parent 8 months ago may identify several signs indicating the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Among the listed options, recurrent nightmares about the parent's death is a clear indication of PTSD, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). PTSD symptoms may include intrusive thoughts such as nightmares or flashbacks, avoidance of reminders of the trauma, negative changes in thoughts and mood associated with the traumatic event, and marked changes in arousal and reactivity, such as being easily startled or having difficulty sleeping.