The nurse is caring for a hospitalized 18-month-old toddler client. Which is an appropriate play activity for the nurse to offer the toddler client?
The nurse is caring for a hospitalized 18-month-old toddler client. Which is an appropriate play activity for the nurse to offer the toddler client?
A. 36-piece puzzles
[10%]
B. Miniature cars
[34%]
C. Finger paints
[51%]
D. Comic books
[5%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Child Health
Lesson
Growth & Development
Client Need
Test Plan
Health Promotion and Maintenance
Related Topic
Development Stages and Transitions
Item Type
Item Type
Application
Explanation
Choice C is correct. Finger paints are an example of an appropriate resource to offer for use to the toddler (and the toddler's parent(s)/caregiver(s)) to assist in developing the toddler's fine motor skills. The most educational toys foster the interaction of an adult with a pediatric client in supportive, unconditional play.
Choice A is incorrect. A 36-piece puzzle is likely too advanced for a toddler to complete. Additionally, based on the target demographic for this type of product, some pieces may present a choking hazard for toddlers.
Choice B is incorrect. Miniature cars have a high potential for aspiration in the pediatric toddler population.
Choice D is incorrect. Comic books are too advanced for toddlers. Although they are enjoyable to look at because of the pictures, based on the current level of cognitive development, the toddler cannot fully appreciate the comic book yet.
Learning Objective
When caring for a hospitalized 18-month-old toddler client, recognize that finger painting is the most appropriate play activity for the nurse to offer the toddler client.
Additional Info
✓ Additional resources to consider for toddler clients include thick crayons, chalk, blackboard, paper, and puzzles with large, wooden, simple pieces.
✓ Parents, caregivers, and other health care providers (HCPs) are encouraged to allow pediatric toddler clients to play with various simple toys that foster creative thinking, rather than passive toys that the client observes (i.e., battery-operated or mechanical).
✓ During periods of irritability, quiet activities (e.g., appropriateness of the activities selected are based on the pediatric client's age) help to distract these clients from the discomfort.
