A nurse is caring for a 4-year-old child who has a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus and is distressed after an insulin injection.Which of the following play activities should the nurse recognize as therapeutic in helping the child deal with the injection?

The correct answer is Choice D.Choice A rationaleA storybook about a child who has diabetes can be helpful in educating the child about their condition and normalizing their experience. However, it may not be as effective in addressing the immediate distress caused by an insulin injection. Therapeutic play that directly involves the injection experience can be more beneficial in helping the child cope with their fear and anxiety.Choice B rationaleA period of play in the playroom can provide a distraction and help the child relax. However, it does not specifically address the child’s distress related to the insulin injection. Therapeutic play that involves role-playing the injection process can be more effective in helping the child understand and cope with the procedure.Choice C rationaleA video game can serve as a distraction and help the child relax. However, it does not directly address the child’s fear and anxiety related to the insulin injection. Therapeutic play that involves role-playing the injection process can be more effective in helping the child understand and cope with the procedure.Choice D rationaleUsing a needleless syringe and a doll allows the child to engage in therapeutic play that simulates the experience of receiving an insulin injection. This type of play helps the child understand the procedure, reduces fear and anxiety, and provides a sense of control over the situation. It is a direct and effective way to help the child cope with the distress caused by the injection.