Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

What should the nurse recommend to help a toddler who takes several hours to fall asleep?

1. Vary the time the toddler goes to bed each night

2. Allow the toddler to watch television before bedtime

3. Provide the toddler with a favorite toy at bedtime.

4. Increase the toddler's activity prior to bedtime

The correct answer is: Provide the toddler with a favorite toy at bedtime.

Recommending the provision of a favorite toy at bedtime is beneficial for several reasons. A familiar and comforting object can provide a sense of security to a toddler, which is crucial at this developmental stage. Having a favorite toy can help establish a relaxing bedtime routine, allowing the child to associate the presence of the toy with comfort and sleep. This comfort can reduce anxiety and restlessness, making it easier for the toddler to settle down and fall asleep more quickly. In contrast, varying the bedtime can disrupt a toddler's circadian rhythm, making it harder for them to establish a consistent sleep pattern. Watching television before bedtime can be overstimulating, as screens emit blue light that can interfere with the production of melatonin—the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. Lastly, increasing activity prior to bedtime can lead to overexcitement and an increased heart rate, making it difficult for the child to wind down and transition into sleep mode. Thus, providing a favorite toy aligns with creating a calming bedtime environment conducive to sleep.