What should a nurse encourage to reduce feelings of isolation in hospitalized adolescents?

Encouraging contact with peer groups is essential for reducing feelings of isolation in hospitalized adolescents. Adolescence is a critical period for social development, and maintaining connections with peers plays a significant role in emotional well-being. When adolescents are hospitalized, they may feel cut off from their social networks, which can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and anxiety.

Promoting peer interactions can help these young patients feel supported, understood, and less isolated from their usual social environment. Engaging with friends, whether through phone calls, video chats, or scheduled visits, allows the adolescent to share their experiences and receive emotional support, which contributes to a more positive outlook during their hospital stay.

Options that suggest isolation or limited communication would further contribute to feelings of loneliness and disconnection, which can hinder recovery and emotional stability. Similarly, while extended family visitation can be beneficial, it may not provide the same level of social connection and understanding that peers can offer during this developmental stage. Thus, facilitating contact with peer groups is the most effective way to address feelings of isolation in this context.