A nurse on a pediatric unit is caring for a toddler who has poor dietary intake. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Correct answer: B A. Family presence can provide comfort and support to the toddler, making mealtimes a more positive experience. It can also encourage the child to eat more by setting a good example. However, without first understanding the child's dietary habits and possible issues, this intervention might not address the root cause of the poor intake. B. The nurse’s first action in caring for a toddler with poor dietary intake should be to obtain the child’s dietary history. Understanding the child’s current eating habits, preferences, and any potential barriers to adequate nutrition is essential for planning appropriate interventions. Once the dietary history is obtained, the nurse can tailor further actions based on the specific needs of the child. C. Offering nutritious snacks can help increase the child's overall calorie and nutrient intake, which is particularly important if the child has a low appetite during regular meals. Nevertheless, this step should follow the assessment of the child's dietary history to ensure that the snacks offered are appropriate and to avoid potential allergies or intolerances. D. Positive reinforcement can encourage healthy eating behaviors and make mealtime a more enjoyable experience for the child. Praising the child can motivate them to eat more. However, this should be done after understanding the child's eating patterns and preferences to ensure that the praise is given in a context that promotes effective and lasting change.