Adolescents are in a critical period of development, and their peer groups play an important role in their social, emotional, and cognitive development. Separation from peer groups can have a number of negative impacts on adolescents, including:

• Increased loneliness and isolation: Adolescents who are separated from their peer groups may feel lonely and isolated. This can lead to a number of negative consequences, including depression, anxiety, and decreased self-esteem.
• Difficulty developing social skills: Adolescents learn social skills by interacting with their peers. Separation from peer groups can make it difficult for adolescents to develop these important skills.
• Increased risk of engaging in risky behaviors: Adolescents who are separated from their peer groups may be more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance abuse, delinquency, and risky sexual activity.

Arranging for visitation and playtime during hospitalization and isolation

When arranging for visitation and playtime during Bobby’s hospitalization and isolation, the nurse should consider the following:

• Bobby’s infection control needs: Bobby is on contact precautions for MRSA, so it is important to minimize contact with other people. This means that visitors should wear gloves and gowns, and they should wash their hands thoroughly before and after visiting Bobby.
• Bobby’s emotional needs: Bobby is a social adolescent, so it is important to provide him with opportunities to interact with others. However, it is also important to respect his need for privacy and rest.
• Bobby’s age and interests: Bobby is a 13-year-old male, so it is important to arrange activities that are appropriate for his age and interests.

Here are some specific suggestions for arranging for visitation and playtime during Bobby’s hospitalization and isolation:

• Allow Bobby to have visitors, but limit the number of visitors and the length of visits.
• Encourage Bobby to have video chats with his friends.
• Provide Bobby with board games, video games, and other activities that he can do with visitors.
• If possible, arrange for Bobby to have a private space where he can socialize with visitors.
• If Bobby is up to it, arrange for him to participate in group activities with other hospitalized adolescents.

Concerns with body image

Adolescents are very concerned with their body image, and hospitalization can have a negative impact on body image. Bobby may be self-conscious about his open wound and the dressings that are required. He may also be concerned about the changes in his body that are associated with puberty.

The nurse can help Bobby to cope with concerns about body image by:

• Validating Bobby’s feelings. It is important to let Bobby know that it is normal to feel self-conscious about his body after surgery and hospitalization.
• Educating Bobby about the healing process. The nurse can explain to Bobby what to expect as his wound heals. This can help to reduce Bobby’s anxiety and improve his body image.
• Encouraging Bobby to express himself. The nurse can provide Bobby with opportunities to express his feelings about his body image. This can be done through talking, writing, or art.
• Promoting positive body image. The nurse can help Bobby to focus on the positive aspects of his body. This can be done by talking about his strengths and accomplishments.

Why “play” is an important part of childhood

Play is an important part of childhood because it helps children to learn and grow. Play allows children to explore their world, develop their creativity, and learn social skills. Play also helps children to cope with stress and anxiety.

Bobby may be feeling stressed and anxious about his hospitalization and illness. Play can help him to cope with these feelings and to improve his overall well-being.

The nurse can promote play in Bobby’s hospitalization by:

• Providing Bobby with toys and games.
• Arranging for Bobby to participate in group activities with other hospitalized adolescents.
• Encouraging Bobby’s family and friends to bring him toys and games.
• Encouraging Bobby to use his imagination and creativity to come up with new and innovative ways to play.

By promoting play, the nurse can help Bobby to cope with his hospitalization and illness. Play can also help Bobby to maintain his social and emotional well-being.