What action is contraindicated when a child with Down syndrome is hospitalized?

Choice A rationale Determining the child's specific vocabulary for body functions and feelings is essential to facilitate effective communication and reduce anxiety during hospitalization. Children with Down syndrome may have delayed or limited expressive language skills, and understanding their individual communication patterns is a foundational nursing action. Choice B rationale Assessing hearing and visual capabilities is a critical step because children with Down syndrome have an increased incidence of sensory deficits, such as conductive hearing loss and refractive errors. Identifying these deficits allows the nurse to tailor communication and safety measures to the child's specific sensory needs. Choice C rationale Encouraging parents to leave the child alone is contraindicated because children with Down syndrome, like most hospitalized children, benefit greatly from the presence of their primary caregivers to feel secure and reduce separation anxiety. Parental presence promotes emotional well-being and facilitates communication. Choice D rationale Maintaining the child's usual meal times is an appropriate and supportive action that promotes a sense of normalcy and control for the child in the unfamiliar hospital setting. Consistency in routines, including feeding schedules, helps minimize anxiety and encourages adequate nutritional intake.