A couple would like their 5-year-old to attend the birth. Which statement by the nurse would assist in the family's plan to include their 5-year-old in the birth?

Question

1. "You should let your child stay home because you will be focusing on the birth."
2. "Children under 12 are not allowed to be present at the birth."
3. "You should bring someone who only will tend to any specific needs of your child."
4. "Bring some toys to keep your child occupied."

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: A sibling should have his own support person whose primary responsibility is to take care of the child's needs so that the child will have support if anxiety develops over the birth process, and the mother can concentrate on the labor and birth.
Rationale 2: Children are allowed to be present at births.
Rationale 3: A sibling should have his own support person whose primary responsibility is to take care of the child's needs so that the child will have support if anxiety develops over the birth process, and the mother can concentrate on the labor and birth.
Rationale 4: Preparing the child on what to expect is beneficial. Toys will not sustain a 5-year-old's attention for an extended time period.