Question

Which action does the nurse take to minimize separation anxiety experienced by a toddler client?

a. Assigns different nurses until the toddler responds to one
b. Reassures the parents that the toddler is adjusting well
c. Brings other children in to visit and play with the toddler
d. Encourages familiar objects or toy be brought from home

Answer 1

To reduce separation anxiety in toddlers, a nurse should encourage bringing familiar objects or toys from home, which provides continuity and a sense of security.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse can minimize separation anxiety experienced by a toddler by encouraging familiar objects or a toy to be brought from home. This action supports the concept of secure attachment, where a toddler prefers familiar and comforting aspects of their home environment over unfamiliar settings or individuals. By having a personal object or toy, the toddler can feel a sense of continuity and security, which can alleviate anxiety caused by separation from caregivers. In contrast, continuously assigning different nurses may result in increased anxiety, and while reassuring the parents and bringing in other children may have their benefits, these actions do not directly address the child's immediate need for familiarity and security.