Final answer:
To assess health literacy in the mother of a preschool-age child, a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner would administer a reading comprehension test, which is crucial for the mother to make informed health decisions for her child.
Step-by-step explanation:
The PNP (Pediatric Nurse Practitioner) is evaluating health literacy in the mother of a new preschool-age child by administering a reading comprehension test (option C). This method assesses the mother’s ability to understand and utilize health information which is crucial for making informed decisions regarding her child's health and wellbeing. As part of a broader neurological exam, understanding how to communicate health information to patients or their families is a key competency for healthcare professionals, such as conducting an inspection of the oral cavity and pharynx to inspect for signs of infection and assess cranial nerve function.
In another example, assessment of health literacy can also involve observing parent-child interactions (option D), as this can provide insights into how health information might be discussed and applied within the family. Specifically, within the context of pre and postnatal care, evaluating literacy can be an integral part of programs like the Nurse-Family Partnership, which has shown benefits in both maternal life course and child development through home-visiting nurses. Health literacy is a critical component for parents to effectively care for their children and make appropriate healthcare decisions.