For a 2-year-old with a head laceration, which action helps facilitate cooperation during care?

• A. Allow the child to hold a favorite toy or blanket.
• B. Direct the parents to remain outside the treatment room.
• C. Keep the child physically restrained during nursing care.
• D. Let the child decide whether to sit up or lie down for procedures.

Answer: (A)

In pediatric care, giving a child a comforting object during procedures helps cooperation by reducing fear and giving a sense of control. A familiar toy or blanket provides distraction and a secure focus, which lowers distress and helps the clinician perform the necessary care around a head laceration more smoothly. Keeping parents outside removes a key source of reassurance the child relies on; restraining the child increases fear and resistance; and asking a 2-year-old to choose between sitting up or lying down isn’t reliable for safe positioning during a procedure.