Cara Caldwell
NSG 3600
Simulation pre-work
Assessment and Communication Strategies
Infant Presenting With Poor Feeding
Assessment Strategies
● Assess feeding pattern, amount consumed, and frequency of feeds
● Monitor weight, hydration status, wet diapers, and bowel movements
● Observe for signs of fatigue, weak suck, vomiting, reflux, or respiratory distress
● Assess temperature, skin color, fontanels, and level of alertness
● Review prenatal/birth history and recent illnesses
Communication Strategies
● Use calm, reassuring communication with parents
● Ask open-ended questions: How much is your baby usually eating? When did you notice
the feeding changes?
● Encourage parents to participate in care and feeding observations
● Use simple, non-medical language
● Validate caregiver concerns and anxiety
Preschool Child Admitted With Dehydration
Assessment Strategies
● Assess mucous membranes, tears, skin turgor, capillary refill, and urine output
● Monitor vital signs and daily weights
● Assess activity level and signs of lethargy or irritability
● Evaluate intake/output and vomiting or diarrhea frequency
● Monitor electrolyte lab values if ordered
Communication Strategies
● Use short, simple explanations appropriate for developmental age
● Allow choices when possible: Do you want apple juice or popsicle?
● Use play, toys, or pictures to reduce fear
, ● Involve parents for comfort and reassurance
● Praise cooperation during procedures
Adolescent With Type 1 Diabetes
Assessment Strategies
● Monitor blood glucose levels and signs of hypo/hyperglycemia
● Assess insulin administration technique
● Evaluate dietary habits, activity level, and medication adherence
● Assess emotional adjustment and coping skills
● Screen for knowledge deficits and risk-taking behaviors
Communication Strategies
● Speak directly to the adolescent while including parents
● Respect privacy and encourage independence
● Encourage questions and shared decision-making
● Avoid judgmental language
● Use technology-based education tools if appropriate
Teaching Strategies
Infant Presenting With Poor Feeding
Appropriate Teaching
● Teach parents hunger cues and feeding techniques
● Educate on signs of dehydration:
○ Fewer wet diapers
○ Dry mouth
○ Sunken fontanel
● Demonstrate proper burping and positioning
● Teach medication administration if prescribed
● Reinforce when to seek emergency care
Preschool Child With Dehydration
Appropriate Teaching
● Teach importance of oral rehydration solutions
● Encourage small, frequent fluid intake
● Educate caregivers on signs of worsening dehydration
● Use visual aids and demonstrations
● Include parents in care planning
NSG 3600
Simulation pre-work
Assessment and Communication Strategies
Infant Presenting With Poor Feeding
Assessment Strategies
● Assess feeding pattern, amount consumed, and frequency of feeds
● Monitor weight, hydration status, wet diapers, and bowel movements
● Observe for signs of fatigue, weak suck, vomiting, reflux, or respiratory distress
● Assess temperature, skin color, fontanels, and level of alertness
● Review prenatal/birth history and recent illnesses
Communication Strategies
● Use calm, reassuring communication with parents
● Ask open-ended questions: How much is your baby usually eating? When did you notice
the feeding changes?
● Encourage parents to participate in care and feeding observations
● Use simple, non-medical language
● Validate caregiver concerns and anxiety
Preschool Child Admitted With Dehydration
Assessment Strategies
● Assess mucous membranes, tears, skin turgor, capillary refill, and urine output
● Monitor vital signs and daily weights
● Assess activity level and signs of lethargy or irritability
● Evaluate intake/output and vomiting or diarrhea frequency
● Monitor electrolyte lab values if ordered
Communication Strategies
● Use short, simple explanations appropriate for developmental age
● Allow choices when possible: Do you want apple juice or popsicle?
● Use play, toys, or pictures to reduce fear
, ● Involve parents for comfort and reassurance
● Praise cooperation during procedures
Adolescent With Type 1 Diabetes
Assessment Strategies
● Monitor blood glucose levels and signs of hypo/hyperglycemia
● Assess insulin administration technique
● Evaluate dietary habits, activity level, and medication adherence
● Assess emotional adjustment and coping skills
● Screen for knowledge deficits and risk-taking behaviors
Communication Strategies
● Speak directly to the adolescent while including parents
● Respect privacy and encourage independence
● Encourage questions and shared decision-making
● Avoid judgmental language
● Use technology-based education tools if appropriate
Teaching Strategies
Infant Presenting With Poor Feeding
Appropriate Teaching
● Teach parents hunger cues and feeding techniques
● Educate on signs of dehydration:
○ Fewer wet diapers
○ Dry mouth
○ Sunken fontanel
● Demonstrate proper burping and positioning
● Teach medication administration if prescribed
● Reinforce when to seek emergency care
Preschool Child With Dehydration
Appropriate Teaching
● Teach importance of oral rehydration solutions
● Encourage small, frequent fluid intake
● Educate caregivers on signs of worsening dehydration
● Use visual aids and demonstrations
● Include parents in care planning
