A 12-year-old boy is happy to be taking growth hormone injections because he thinks he will grow tall. What response is best for the nurse to provide?

• A. "You will grow with this medicine, and are likely to be taller than anyone in your family."
• B. "You must remember that this treatment regimen is not always effective."
• C. "Although being tall is important to you, remember there are far more important characteristics than height."
• D. "Being taller is important to you and taking your injections will help achieve that goal."

Answer: (D)

Focusing on how the treatment fits the patient’s goals is key to effective pediatric communication. A message that acknowledges how important height is to the boy and connects taking the injections to pursuing that goal validates his motivation and supports adherence. It shows you understand what he wants and presents the therapy as a practical step toward achieving it, which can build trust and cooperation.

Growth hormone therapy can influence height, but outcomes vary and aren’t guaranteed. This is why promising a definite tall outcome would be inappropriate, and why linking the treatment to the patient’s goal without overpromising is the best approach. The other options either promise too much, undermine the patient’s motivation, or shift focus away from his stated goal.