Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 63%
Simulated
The nurse is caring for a preschool child who is being treated in the hospital for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). In planning the client's care, the nurse should recognize that the child is likely to view this illness as?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A: Punishment. Preschool children often see illness as a form of punishment, especially when they are unable to understand the cause of their sickness. This perception is rooted in their limited cognitive abilities and understanding of health concepts. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because preschool children are less likely to associate illness with disturbance to body image, rejection from parents, or changes in routine with friends. These options are not developmentally appropriate for how preschoolers typically interpret illness.