What action should the nurse implement when a 6-year-old squirms during an abdominal palpation?

The appropriate action of placing the child's hand under the examiner's hand while palpating serves multiple functions that can help facilitate a more comfortable experience for the child during the examination. Engaging the child in this manner encourages participation and helps them feel less anxious or threatened. By allowing the child to assist, it can create a sense of control and involvement, which is especially important in pediatric care.

This approach not only promotes trust between the nurse and the child but also can help to reduce the child's movement and squirming during the procedure. When a child feels they have some control over the situation, they are more likely to be calm, allowing for a more effective and accurate physical examination. This is particularly crucial during abdominal palpation, where relaxation of the abdominal muscles contributes to more accurate findings.

The other options do not adequately address the issue of discomfort and anxiety that may be causing the child to squirm. Postponing the palpation could lead to prolonging the child's unease and may not be practical in a clinical setting. Touching the abdomen firmly or encouraging breath-holding may increase anxiety and discomfort, making it harder for the child to settle down during the examination. Therefore, engaging the child's participation through a supportive action is the best choice in this