A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a school-age child who has autism and is scheduled for surgery.Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationaleLeaving the television on during the night may cause overstimulation and disrupt the child’s need for quiet, structured environments, which are essential for managing autism-related sensory sensitivities, especially pre-surgery.Choice B rationaleMinimizing physical contact helps respect sensory processing issues common in autism. Overwhelming tactile input may exacerbate agitation, so maintaining a calm and sensory-friendly environment is critical in healthcare interactions.Choice C rationalePlacing the child in a semiprivate room may expose them to more sensory stimuli, reducing the personalized care necessary for children with autism who often need minimized distractions for emotional regulation and security.Choice D rationaleMaintaining eye contact during agitation can be perceived as confrontational and may escalate the child’s distress. Alternative soothing techniques should focus on reducing environmental stressors without direct provocative interactions.