What is an important consideration for the nurse when speaking to a young child?

• A. The nurse must be honest, as attempts at deception can lead to a lack of trust.
• B. The nurse should avoid giving any clear information.
• C. The nurse should rely on the parent for all explanations.
• D. The nurse should use medical jargon to seem professional.

Answer: (A)

Honesty with a young child is essential for building trust and reducing fear. When the nurse explains what’s happening in simple, developmentally appropriate terms, the child feels respected and safer during care, which eases cooperation and questions. Deception, even with good intentions, can damage trust and create lasting anxiety about medical encounters when the truth eventually comes out. So provide truthful information the child can understand, using plain language and concrete examples, and involve the parent as a supportive filler when appropriate without shielding the child from necessary facts.