What is an appropriate response by a nurse to a child experiencing phantom limb pain after amputation?

The response suggesting that the aching and cramping is normal and temporary, and that it will subside, is appropriate because it offers reassurance to the child that their experience of phantom limb pain is a common post-amputation phenomenon. Phantom limb pain is a well-documented condition where individuals report sensations, including pain, where their limb once was. This kind of response normalizes the child’s experience, helping them to understand that such sensations can be a part of the healing process.

Providing reassurance in this manner can help alleviate anxiety and assist in coping with the distressing sensations associated with phantom limb pain. By acknowledging that the pain is a typical response to amputation and that it will likely decrease over time, the nurse fosters a supportive environment, encouraging the child to share their feelings and symptoms without fear of judgment.

Other options, while they may contain elements of truth, lack the balanced reassurance that option A provides. Rather than implying that the experience is abnormal or that the pain is not real, it’s essential that the healthcare provider communicates understanding and empathy regarding the child’s condition.