Question

The mother of a school-age child is distraught over the ongoing oppositional behavior demonstrated by the child at home and at school. Which nursing diagnosis should the nurse select as appropriate for the child and family?

a. Situational low self-esteem related to lack of successful coping strategies
b. Impaired social interaction related to short attention span and distractibility
c. Interrupted family processes related to inability of child to follow instructions
d. Risk for self-directed violence related to impulsivity

Answer 1

The nursing diagnosis that fits the situation is 'impaired social interaction' due to the child's ongoing oppositional behavior, which may signify an underlying condition such as ADHD or autism spectrum disorder.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most appropriate nursing diagnosis for a school-age child demonstrating ongoing oppositional behavior at home and at school would be impaired social interaction related to short attention span and distractibility.

This diagnosis considers the possibility of underlying conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism spectrum disorder, both of which can manifest as difficulty in social environments and can cause challenges with following instructions, thus impacting family dynamics. The diagnosis acknowledges the child's struggle with social cues as well as the subsequent interrupted family processes stemming from the child's behavior.