A nurse is planning care for a 10-year-old child who will be hospitalized for an extended period of time. Which of the following actions should the nurse include in the plan of care to meet the client's psychosocial needs according to Erikson?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Vary the child's schedule each day: Hospitalized children need structure and predictability to feel safe. A routine provides a sense of control. B. Provide a daily session with a play therapist: While play is important, play therapy is a specific psychological intervention for emotional trauma, not a general developmental requirement. The "work" of the school-age child is school and skill-building. C. Encourage the client to complete school work: According to Erikson, the developmental stage for a school-age child (6–12 years) is Industry vs. Inferiority. The child strives for competence and mastery of skills. Continuing schoolwork allows the child to maintain a sense of industry, normalcy, and accomplishment, preventing feelings of inferiority despite the hospitalization. D. Discourage visits from the client's friends: Peer relationships are becoming increasingly important at this age. Isolation from friends can lead to depression and loneliness.