Which question would the nurse ask the parent of a child suspected of being bullied at school?

Which question would the nurse ask the parent of a child suspected of being bullied at school?

• A. All of the above
• B. Does your child exhibit any anxiety?
• C. Has your child tried to harm himself or herself?
• D. How is your child's academic performance?

Answer: (B)

Bullying often shows up as emotional distress, with anxiety being a common and early signal that the child is affected. Asking the parent whether the child exhibits anxiety helps the nurse quickly gauge the emotional impact of possibly being bullied and to decide what steps to take next. If anxiety is present, it points toward needing further discussion about how school, social interactions, and sleep or mood may be affected, which guides safety planning and supporting the child’s mental health. While questions about academic performance and self-harm are important, they address different aspects. Academic impact can be influenced by many factors and may not directly confirm bullying on its own. Self-harm questions are crucial for safety, but they’re most appropriate when there are signs of distress that raise concern for risk. Starting with anxiety as the initial screening question provides a focused, emotionally grounded entry point that directs subsequent, more targeted questions and interventions. If any risk of self-harm is identified, respond with immediate safety steps and appropriate follow-up.

Bullying often shows up as emotional distress, with anxiety being a common and early signal that the child is affected. Asking the parent whether the child exhibits anxiety helps the nurse quickly gauge the emotional impact of possibly being bullied and to decide what steps to take next. If anxiety is present, it points toward needing further discussion about how school, social interactions, and sleep or mood may be affected, which guides safety planning and supporting the child’s mental health.

While questions about academic performance and self-harm are important, they address different aspects. Academic impact can be influenced by many factors and may not directly confirm bullying on its own. Self-harm questions are crucial for safety, but they’re most appropriate when there are signs of distress that raise concern for risk. Starting with anxiety as the initial screening question provides a focused, emotionally grounded entry point that directs subsequent, more targeted questions and interventions. If any risk of self-harm is identified, respond with immediate safety steps and appropriate follow-up.