To ensure optimum mental health of an infant born with a con...

During the nursing assessment, which of the following suggests that the mother may be continuing to abuse heroin?

A. The mother states, 'I am tired all the time and find myself needing to sleep when the baby sleeps.'
B. The nurse notes a variety of small ecchymotic areas on the arms and legs of the mother.
C. The mother appears indifferent to the crying of the newborn.
D. The mother has a body odor and the newborn appears unkempt.
E. The mother expresses an inability to afford public transportation to the clinic.
F. The mother states that the father of the child is no longer associated with the family.

Rationale: Ecchymotic areas suggest injection sites, indifference may indicate substance use, and poor hygiene is a common sign of ongoing abuse.

Which is most therapeutic for the nurse to say privately to the parent in this situation?

Rationale: Acknowledging concern validates the parent's emotions and opens dialogue.

Which instruction is most important for the nurse to recommend to the teenage mother regarding parenting the infant?

Rationale: Cuddling and talking foster bonding and emotional development, critical for the infant.

When planning care for an autistic child, which nursing intervention is most appropriate?

Rationale: Consistency reduces anxiety in autistic children.

The nurse correctly explains that this client's behavior is an example of which psychological defense mechanism?

Rationale: Seeking contraception while suspecting pregnancy reflects denial of the reality.

Pediatric Mental Health NCLEX Questions