A child is admitted to the PICU following an accident. The nurse is speaking with the parents regarding preparing siblings to visit. What should the nurse include in the conversation with the parents? Select all that apply

Question

1. Describe how the sibling looks.
2. Describe in detail what the siblings should expect to see.
3. Describe the hospital environment.
4. Use a doll to show injuries.
5. Discourage the siblings from visiting.

Answer 1

1, 3, 4

Rationale:
1. Before the visit, talk with the siblings about what to expect, and describe how their sibling will look.
2. Inform siblings about ill siblings using language and concepts appropriate to their ages and developmental tasks.
3. Describe the hospital environment, including equipment, sounds, and smells.
4. Using a doll, drawing pictures, or showing an actual picture of the child can help prepare the siblings.
5. Siblings should be allowed to visit. Such a visit should be encouraged if the child could potentially die.