A nurse is caring for a 4-year-old child who refuses to take his medication because of the bad taste. Which of the following strategies should the nurse use to elicit the child's cooperation?

A. Hide the medication in apple slices: This is inappropriate as the child might distrust caregivers if they realize the medication was hidden. B. Offer the child an ice pop prior to administering the medication: An ice pop numbs taste buds and can reduce the unpleasant taste of medication. C. Tell the child the medicine tastes like candy: Providing false information undermines trust and is unethical. D. Inform the child that if he does not take the medication he will need a shot: Threats increase anxiety and do not foster cooperation.