Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

When making a room assignment for a newly admitted school-age child, what should be the nurse's priority consideration?

1. Length of stay.

2. Treatment schedule.

3. Disease process.

4. Self-care ability.

The correct answer is: Disease process.

The priority consideration when making a room assignment for a newly admitted school-age child is the disease process. Understanding the child's specific health condition is crucial for several reasons. It allows the nurse to identify potential health risks and ensure the child is placed in an appropriate environment that minimizes exposure to infections or further complications linked to their condition. For instance, if the child has a contagious illness, it would be vital to place them in a room away from other patients to prevent the spread of the disease. Recognizing the disease process also aids in providing the necessary specialized care and attention the child may require based on their condition, which is essential for optimal recovery and safety. In contrast, while the length of stay, treatment schedule, and self-care ability are important factors to consider, they do not take precedence over the immediate health needs and safety related to the child's disease process. Prioritizing the disease process ensures that the most critical aspects of the child’s health are addressed first, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.