A child's parents ask the nurse many questions about their child's illness and its management. The nurse does not know enough to answer all the questions. What nursing action is most appropriate at this time?
a. Tell them, "I don't know, but I will find out."
b. Suggest that they ask the physician these questions.
c. Explain that the nurse cannot be expected to know everything.
d. Answer questions vaguely so they do not lose confidence in the nurse.
ANS: A
Questions from parents should be answered in a straightforward manner. Stating "I don't know" or "I'll find out" is better than pretending to know or giving excuses. Suggesting that they ask the physician these questions is not supportive of the family. The nurse's role is to assist the parents in obtaining accurate information about their child's illness and its management. Although the nurse cannot be expected to know everything, it is an unprofessional attitude to state this. Nurses must provide accurate information to the extent possible. Vague answers are not helpful to the family.
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