Question

Amy, age 6 years, needs to be hospitalized again because of a chronic illness. The clinic nurse overhears her school-age siblings tell her, ""We are sick of Mom always sitting with you in the hospital and playing with you. It isn't fair that you get everything and we have to stay with the neighbors."" Which is the nurse's best assessment of this situation?

A. The siblings are immature and probably spoiled.
B. Jealousy and resentment are common reactions to the illness or hospitalization of a sibling.
C. Family has ineffective coping mechanisms to deal with chronic illness.
D. The siblings need to better understand their sister's illness and needs.

Answer 1

The nurse's best assessment of the situation is that jealousy and resentment are common reactions to the illness or hospitalization of a sibling. Open communication and education are important in helping the siblings understand their sister's illness and needs.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse's best assessment of the situation is B. Jealousy and resentment are common reactions to the illness or hospitalization of a sibling.

When a child has a chronic illness and requires frequent hospitalization, it can create feelings of jealousy and resentment in their siblings. This is understandable as they may feel neglected, left out, or that their needs are not being met. It is important for the family to address these emotions and find ways to support the siblings in understanding their sister's illness and needs.

One way to address the situation is through open communication and education. The siblings need to better understand their sister's illness and the reasons behind her hospitalization. This can help alleviate some of their feelings of frustration and enable them to develop empathy and support for their sister.