MEDizzy - A 2-year-old child is hospitalized for a fractured femur.

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Pediatrics I

A 2-year-old child is hospitalized for a fractured femur. During his first two days in the hospital, he lies quietly, sucks his thumb, and does not cry. Which is the best interpretation of his behavior?

ExplanationThe child’s behavior is typical of the despair phase of toddler responses to anxiety. The child should cry. Lying quietly, sucking his thumb, and saying nothing are suggestive of severe anxiety, a bad adjustment to the hospital, and no comfort with the nurses. This anxiety response does not suggest a poor relationship with his parents. In fact, his severe separation anxiety may be because he is so close to his parents.