A nurse is preparing to transfer a child from the intensive care unit to progressive care. The parents seem very anxious and do not want the child to transfer. Which responses by the nurse are most appropriate? (Select all that apply.)

Question

A.
"I am interested in what is most stressful about moving your child."
B.
"Parents are always involved with their child's care in any unit."
C.
"The nurses will monitor your child closely as often as needed."
D.
"We can keep her here if you really insist on it."
E.
"You should be happy because your child is getting better."

Answer 1

ANS: A, B, C
Parents are often anxious about moving their child out of the intensive care unit for many reasons. The caring nurse will ask what is most stressful so that this topic can be addressed. Assuring them that they will remain involved in their child's care is reassuring. Letting the parents know that the new staff will continue to monitor and care for the child based on his or her needs is also important. The nurse should not offer to keep a child in the intensive care unit to placate the parents, as this may not be possible in the facility. It is also not desirable to maintain a higher level of care than needed. Telling the parents how they should feel is dismissive of their concerns.