Practice Question
A nurse is caring for an 18-month-old toddler who has been hospitalized for 10 days. After the toddler's mother leaves the room, the nurse observes the toddler sitting quietly in the corner of the crib, sucking her thumb. When the nurse approaches the crib, the toddler turns away from the nurse. The nurse should understand that these behaviors indicate which of the following developmental reactions?
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
Regression
Rationale:
🔷 Regression is a common response in toddlers during prolonged hospitalization or separation from their primary caregiver.
🔷 Behaviors such as thumb-sucking, quiet withdrawal, and avoiding interaction reflect a return to earlier, more comforting developmental stages.
🔷 Toddlers regress when stressed because familiar behaviors provide emotional security when they feel overwhelmed.
🔷 This behavior does not indicate rejection of the nurse or anger toward the mother; it is a typical coping mechanism seen in hospitalized toddlers.
Resentment toward the mother
🔷 Toddlers experiencing prolonged separation often show attachment behaviors, not resentment.
🔷 This presentation is more consistent with detachment or regression, not anger.
Developing autonomy
🔷 Developing autonomy involves assertiveness, exploration, and independence—not withdrawal or thumb-sucking.
🔷 These behaviors signal stress, not growing independence.
An anxiety reaction
🔷 Anxiety in toddlers is usually shown through crying, clinging, or separation distress, not quiet withdrawal and regression.
🔷 The observed behaviors are more strongly aligned with regression.
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This question is from Custom NURS2221 Final Comprehensive Exam Fall 25 which contains 80 questions.
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From Exam
Custom NURS2221 Final Comprehensive Exam Fall 25
80 Questions
View Full Exam Start PracticingQuestion Details
- Category: RN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: ATI Exam(s)
- Domain: RN ATI Pediatrics
- Answer Choices: 4