A nurse would expect the following behaviors from a toddler subjected to prolonged hospitalization with limited parental visits:
- Separation anxiety and clinginess towards nurses/doctors since the toddler is detached from parents. The toddler may cry, scream or throw tantrums when medical staff leave the room.
- Regression in recently acquired developmental skills like toilet training, feeding self, etc. The toddler may lose these skills due to the stress and unfamiliar environment.
- Withdrawal and decreased interaction. The toddler may become quiet, inactive and avoid playing or interacting with others.
- Disrupted sleep patterns and restlessness. The toddler may have trouble sleeping well or taking regular naps in the hospital.
- Loss of appetite and weight loss. Hospital food may be unpalatable leading to poor appetite. The distress may also suppress hunger.
- Physical symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, headaches from the anxiety and stress.
- Nightmares, bedwetting, and fear of medical procedures like injections.
- Increased susceptibility to illnesses like common cold due to the lowered immunity.
- Clinging to toys or blankets brought from home to feel secure.
The nurse would need to provide extra comfort, reassurance, empathy and patience to help the toddler cope. Maintaining familiar routines would also help provide stability.