You receive the change-of-shift report for an infant whose family has just been informed of the infant's cystic fibrosis diagnosis. As the nurse caring for this pediatric client and the family, which of the following should you prioritize?
You receive the change-of-shift report for an infant whose family has just been informed of the infant's cystic fibrosis diagnosis. As the nurse caring for this pediatric client and the family, which of the following should you prioritize?
A. Arrange and schedule a follow-up appointment with a pediatric pulmonologist
[28%]
B. Provide emotional support for the family
[60%]
C. Arrange for financial assistance
[1%]
D. Arrange for parental genetic testing, as the parents mention they want another child soon
[11%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Child Health
Lesson
Respiratory
Client Need
Test Plan
Health Promotion and Maintenance
Related Topic
Self-Care
Item Type
Item Type
Application
Explanation
Choice B is correct. Following the recent diagnosis of a chronic and incurable genetic condition such as cystic fibrosis, this family will require significant emotional support. Throughout the shift, the parents will likely have numerous questions regarding the need to follow up on genetic counseling, treatment options, prognosis, and/or resources, making Choice B the priority.
Choice A is incorrect. Based on the information in this question, there is no indication that this infant's discharge is pending, nor has a pediatric pulmonology referral been written.
Choice C is incorrect. Arranging for financial assistance is typically a lengthy, multi-step process. Procurement of financial assistance is the type of goal one would establish as a long-term goal for this family.
Choice D is incorrect. The parents must understand the risks of conceiving additional children but at this time, arranging for parental genetic testing is not the priority.
Learning Objective
Recognize the need to prioritize providing emotional support to a family of an infant who recently received a chronic diagnosis of cystic fibrosis.
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