Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

For a hospitalized child, how should the nurse adapt activities to aid comfort?

1. Involve play therapists only

2. Restrict all play for safety

3. Encourage familiar play activities

4. Limit interaction with other children

The correct answer is: Encourage familiar play activities

Encouraging familiar play activities is crucial for aiding comfort in hospitalized children. Familiar activities provide a sense of normalcy and can significantly reduce anxiety and stress associated with being in a medical environment. When children engage in play that they recognize and enjoy, it can serve as a form of emotional expression and distraction from discomfort or pain. Familiar play fosters a connection to their usual routine and can enhance feelings of security during a time that may feel overwhelming. Incorporating familiar play can also assist in facilitating coping mechanisms, allowing children to express their feelings and fears in a safe environment. It helps maintain their developmental skills, as play is a natural way for children to learn and express their creativity. Involving parents and caregivers in these activities can further enhance the child’s comfort level, creating a supportive environment that promotes healing. Play therapists may have their specific roles in pediatric healthcare settings, but relying exclusively on them limits the involvement of the child's support system. On the other hand, restricting all play or limiting interactions with other children can lead to increased feelings of isolation and anxiety, which is contrary to the goal of providing comfort. Thus, familiar play activities can be a powerful therapeutic tool in supporting children's emotional and psychological well-being during hospitalization.