Peds - Weeks 1-2

A toddler's parent asks the nurse for suggestions on dealing with temper tantrums. Which is the most appropriate recommendation? a. Punish the child. b. Leave the child alone until the tantrum is over. c. Remain close by the child but without eye contact. d. Explain to child that this is wrong.

The parent should be told that the best way to deal with temper tantrums is to ignore the behaviors, provided that the actions are not dangerous to the child. Tantrums are common in toddlers as the child becomes more independent and overwhelmed by increasingly complex tasks. The parents and caregivers need to have consistent and developmentally appropriate expectations. Punishment and explanations will not be beneficial. The parent's presence is necessary both for safety and to provide a feeling of control and security to the child when the tantrum is over.

A nurse is assessing a 6-month-old infant. The nurse recognizes the posterior fontanel usually closes at which age? a. 6 to 8 weeks b. 10 to 12 weeks c. 4 to 6 months d. 8 to 10 months

a. 6 to 8 weeks The bones surrounding the posterior fontanel fuse and close by age 6 to 8 weeks; 10 to 12 weeks, 4 to 6 months, and 8 to 10 months are too late. The posterior fontanel is usually closed by age 8 weeks.

What factors indicate parents should seek genetic counseling for their child? (Select all that apply.) a. Abnormal newborn screen b. Family history of a hereditary disease c. History of hypertension in the family d. Severe colic as an infant e. Metabolic disorder

a. Abnormal newborn screen b. Family history of a hereditary disease e. Metabolic disorder Factors that are indicative parents should seek genetic counseling for their child include an abnormal newborn screen, family history of a hereditary disease, and a metabolic disorder. A history of hypertension or severe colic as an infant is not an indicator of a genetic disease.

A nurse is teaching a parent about administration of iron supplements to a 7-month-old infant. Which should the nurse include in the teaching session? (Select all that apply.) a. Administer the iron supplement with a dropper toward the side and to the back of the mouth b. Administer the iron supplement with feedings. c. Your infant's stools may look tarry green. d. Your infant may have some diarrhea initially. e. Follow the iron supplement with 4 ounces of juice.

a. Administer the iron supplement with a dropper toward the side and to the back of the mouth c. Your infant's stools may look tarry green. e. Follow the iron supplement with 4 ounces of juice. Liquid iron supplements may stain the teeth; therefore, administer them with a dropper toward the back of the mouth (side). Ideally, iron supplements should be administered between meals for greater absorption. Avoid administration of liquid iron supplements with whole cow's milk or milk products because they bind free iron and prevent absorption. Educate parents that iron supplements will turn stools black or tarry green. Iron supplements may cause transient constipation, not diarrhea. In older children, follow liquid iron supplement with a citrus fruit or juice drink (no more than 3 to 4 oz).

Which would be the best play activity for a 6-month-old infant to provide tactile stimulation? a. Allow to splash in bath b. Give various colored blocks c. Play music box, tapes, or CDs d. Use infant swing or stroller

a. Allow to splash in bath The feel of the water while the infant is splashing will provide tactile stimulation. Various colored blocks would provide visual stimulation for a 4- to 6-month-old infant. Music box, tapes, and CDs provide auditory stimulation. Swings and strollers provide kinesthetic stimulation.

The nurse is teaching parents about appropriate pacifier selection. Which characteristics should the pacifier have? (Select all that apply.) a. Easily grasped handle b. One-piece construction c. Ribbon or string to secure to clothing d. Soft, pliable material e. Sturdy, flexible material

a. Easily grasped handle b. One-piece construction e. Sturdy, flexible material A good pacifier should be easily grasped by the infant. One-piece construction is necessary to avoid having the nipple and guard separate. The material should be sturdy and flexible. If the pacifier is too pliable, it may be aspirated. No ribbon or string should be attached. This poses additional risks.

The nurse notices that a 10-month-old infant being seen in the clinic is wearing expensive, inflexible, high-top shoes. The nurse should explain that: a. soft and flexible shoes are generally better. b. high-top shoes are necessary for support. c. inflexible shoes are necessary to prevent in-toeing and out-toeing. d. this type of shoe will encourage the infant to walk sooner.

a. soft and flexible shoes are generally better. The main purpose of the shoe is protection. Soft, well-constructed, athletic-type shoes are best for infants and children. High-top shoes are not necessary for support but may help to keep the child's foot in the shoe. Inflexible shoes can delay walking and can aggravate in-toeing and out-toeing and impede development of the supportive foot muscles.

Which communication technique should the nurse avoid when interviewing children and their families? a. Using silence b. Using clichés c. Directing the focus d. Defining the problem

b. Using clichés Using stereotyped comments or clichés can block effective communication, and this technique should be avoided. After use of such trite phrases, parents will often not respond. Silence can be an effective interviewing tool. Silence permits the interviewee to sort out thoughts and feelings and search for responses to questions. To be effective, the nurse must be able to direct the focus of the interview while allowing maximal freedom of expression. By using open- ended questions, along with guiding questions, the nurse can obtain the necessary information and maintain the relationship with the family. The nurse and parent must collaborate and define the problem that will be the focus of the nursing intervention.

Which statement is correct about toilet training? a. Bladder training is usually accomplished before bowel training. b. Wanting to please the parent helps motivate the child to use the toilet. c. Watching older siblings use the toilet confuses the child. d. Children must be forced to sit on the toilet when first learning.

b. Wanting to please the parent helps motivate the child to use the toilet. Voluntary control of the anal and urethral sphincters is achieved sometime after the child is walking. The child must be able to recognize the urge to let go and to hold on. The child must want to please parent by holding on rather than pleasing self by letting go. Bowel training precedes bladder training. Watching older siblings provides role modeling and facilitates imitation for the toddler. The child should be introduced to the potty chair or toilet in a nonthreatening manner.

What is the single most important factor to consider when communicating with children? a. The child's physical condition b. Presence or absence of the child's parent c. The child's developmental level d. The child's nonverbal behaviors

c. The child's developmental level The nurse must be aware of the child's developmental stage to engage in effective communi- cation. The use of both verbal and nonverbal communication should be appropriate to the developmental level. Although the child's physical condition is a consideration, developmen- tal level is much more important. The parents' presence is important when communicating with young children but may be detrimental when speaking with adolescents. Nonverbal behaviors will vary in importance, based on the child's developmental level.

At about what age does the Babinski sign disappear? a. 4 months b. 6 months c. 1 year d. 2 years

c. 1 year The presence of the Babinski reflex after about age 1 year, when walking begins, is abnormal. Four to 6 months is too young for the disappearance of the Babinski reflex. Persistence of the Babinski reflex requires further evaluation.

Which is probably the single most important influence on growth at all stages of development? a. Nutrition b. Heredity c. Culture d. Environment

a. Nutrition Nutrition is the single most important influence on growth. Dietary factors regulate growth at all stages of development, and their effects are exerted in numerous and complex ways. Adequate nutrition is closely related to good health throughout life. Heredity, culture, and environment contribute to the child's growth and development. However, good nutrition is essential throughout the life span for optimal health.

The parent of a 16-month-old toddler asks, "What is the best way to keep our son from getting into our medicines at home?" The nurse's best advice is: a. "All medicines should be locked securely away." b. "The medicines should be placed in high cabinets." c. "The child just needs to be taught not to touch medicines." d. "Medicines should not be kept in the homes of small children."

a. "All medicines should be locked securely away." The major reason for poisoning in the home is improper storage. Toddlers can climb, unlatch cabinets, and obtain access to high-security places. For medications, only a locked cabinet is safe. Toddlers can climb by using furniture. High places are not a deterrent to an exploring toddler. Toddlers are not able to generalize as dangerous all the different forms of medications that may be available in the home. It is not feasible to not keep medicines in the homes of small children. Many parents require medications for chronic illnesses. Parents must be taught safe storage for their home and when they visit other homes.

Steven, 16 months old, falls down a few stairs. He gets up and "scolds" the stairs as if they caused him to fall. This is an example of which of the following? a. Animism b. Ritualism c. Irreversibility d. Delayed cognitive development

a. Animism Animism is the attribution of lifelike qualities to inanimate objects. By scolding the stairs, the toddler is attributing human characteristics to them. Ritualism is the need to maintain the sameness and reliability. It provides a sense of comfort to the toddler. Irreversibility is the inability to reverse or undo actions initiated physically. Steven is acting in an age-appropriate manner.

The nurse is preparing to perform a physical assessment on a 10-year-old girl. The nurse gives her the option of her mother either staying in the room or leaving. How should this action be interpreted? a. Appropriate because of child's age b. Appropriate because mother would be uncomfortable making decisions for child c. Inappropriate because of child's age d. Inappropriate because child is same sex as mother

a. Appropriate because of child's age The older school-age child should be given the option of having the parent present or not. During the examination, the nurse should respect the child's need for privacy. Although the question was appropriate for the child's age, the mother is responsible for making decisions for the child. It is appropriate because of the child's age. During the examination, the nurse must respect the child's privacy. The child should help determine who is present during the examination.

Which approach would be best to use to ensure a positive response from a toddler? a. Assume an eye-level position and talk quietly. b. Call the toddler's name while picking him or her up. c. Call the toddler's name and say, "I'm your nurse." d. Stand by the toddler, addressing him or her by name.

a. Assume an eye-level position and talk quietly. It is important that the nurse assume a position at the child's level when communicating with the child. By speaking quietly and focusing on the child, the nurse should be able to obtain a positive response. The nurse should engage the child and inform the toddler what is going to occur. If the nurse picks up the child without explanation, the child is most likely going to become upset. The toddler may not understand the meaning of the phrase, "I'm your nurse." If a positive response is desired, the nurse should assume the child's level when speaking if possible.

Which would be best for the nurse to use when determining the temperature of a preterm infant under a radiant heater? a. Axillary sensor b. Tympanic membrane sensor c. Rectal mercury glass thermometer d. Rectal electronic thermometer

a. Axillary sensor The axillary sensor measures the infrared heat energy radiating from the axilla. It can be used on wet skin, in incubators, or under radiant warmers. Ear thermometry does not show sufficient correlation with established methods of measurement. It should not be used when body temperature must be assessed with precision. Mercury thermometers should never be used. The release of mercury, should the thermometer be broken, can cause harmful vapors. Rectal temperatures should be avoided unless no other suitable way exists for the temperature to be measured.

An infant gains head control before sitting unassisted. The nurse recognizes that this is which type of development? a. Cephalocaudal b. Proximodistal c. Mass to specific d. Sequential

a. Cephalocaudal The pattern of development that is head-to-tail, or cephalocaudal, direction is described by an infant's ability to gain head control before sitting unassisted. The head end of the organism develops first and is large and complex, whereas the lower end is smaller and simpler, and development takes place at a later time. Proximodistal, or near to far, is another pattern of development. Limb buds develop before fingers and toes. Postnatally, the child has control of the shoulder before achieving mastery of the hands. Mass to specific is not a specific pattern of development. In all dimensions of growth, a definite, sequential pattern is followed.

A nurse is planning to use an interpreter during a health history interview of a non-English speaking patient and family. Which nursing care guidelines should the nurse include when using an interpreter? (Select all that apply.) a. Elicit one answer at a time. b. Interrupt the interpreter if the response from the family is lengthy. c. Comments to the interpreter about the family should be made in English. d. Arrange for the family to speak with the same interpreter, if possible. e. Introduce the interpreter to the family.

a. Elicit one answer at a time. d. Arrange for the family to speak with the same interpreter, if possible. e. Introduce the interpreter to the family.

What is the most fatal type of burn in the toddler age group? a. Flame burn from playing with matches b. Scald burn from high-temperature tap water c. Hot object burn from cigarettes or irons d. Electric burn from electric outlets

a. Flame burn from playing with matches Flame burns from matches and lighters represent one of the most fatal types of burns in the toddler age group. High-temperature tap water, hot objects, and electrical outlets are all significant causes of burn injury. The child should be protected from these causes by reducing the temperature on the hot water in the home, keeping objects such as cigarettes and irons away from children, and placing protective guards over electric outlets when not in use.

A nurse is preparing to assess a 3-year-old child. What communication technique should the nurse use for this child? a. Focus communication on child. b. Explain experiences of others to child. c. Use easy analogies when possible. d. Assure child that communication is private.

a. Focus communication on child. Because children of this age are able to see things only in terms of themselves, the best approach is to focus communication directly on them. Children should be provided with information about what they can do and how they will feel. With children who are egocentric, experiences of others, analogies, and assurances that the communication is private will not be effective because the child is not capable of understanding.

Parents tell the nurse that their toddler daughter eats little at mealtime, only sits at the table with the family briefly, and wants snacks "all the time." Which intervention should the nurse recommend? a. Give her nutritious snacks. b. Offer rewards for eating at mealtimes. c. Avoid snacks so she is hungry at mealtimes. d. Explain to her in a firm manner what is expected of her.

a. Give her nutritious snacks. Most toddlers exhibit a physiologic anorexia in response to the decreased nutritional requirement associated with the slower growth rate. Parents should help the child develop healthy eating habits. The toddler is often unable to sit through a meal. Frequent nutritious snacks are a good way to ensure proper nutrition. To help with developing healthy eating habits, food should be not be used as positive or negative reinforcement for behavior. The child may develop habits of overeating or eat non-nutritious foods in response.

Which information could be given to the parents of a 12-month-old child regarding appropriate play activities? a. Give large push-pull toys for kinetic stimulation. b. Place cradle gym across crib to facilitate fine motor skills. c. Provide child with finger paints to enhance fine motor skills. d. Provide stick horse to develop gross motor coordination.

a. Give large push-pull toys for kinetic stimulation. The 12-month-old child is able to pull to standing and walk holding on or independently. Appropriate toys for a child this age include large pull toys for kinesthetic stimulation. A cradle gym should not be placed across the crib. Finger paints are appropriate for older children. A 12-month-old child does not have the stability to use a stick horse.

The nurse is guiding parents in selecting a daycare facility for their infant. Which is especially important to consider when making the selection? a. Health practices of facility b. Structured learning environment c. Socioeconomic status of children d. Cultural similarities of children

a. Health practices of facility Health practices should be most important. With the need for diaper changes and assistance with feeding, young children are at increased risk when hand washing and other hygienic measures are not adhered to. A structured learning environment is not suitable for this age child. The socioeconomic status of children should have little effect on the choice of facility. Cultural similarities of children may be important to the families, but the health care practices of the facility are more important.

The parents of a 2-year-old tell the nurse that they are concerned because the toddler has started to use "baby talk" since the arrival of their new baby. The nurse should recommend which intervention? a. Ignore the "baby talk." b. Explain to the toddler that "baby talk" is for babies. c. Tell the toddler frequently, "You are a big kid now." d. Encourage the toddler to practice more advanced patterns of speech.

a. Ignore the "baby talk." The baby talk is a sign of regression in the toddler. It should be ignored, while praising the child for developmentally appropriate behaviors. Regression is children's way of expressing stress. The parents should not introduce new expectations and allow the child to master the developmental tasks without criticism.

A 4-month-old was born at 35 weeks of gestation. She seems to be developing normally, but her parents are concerned because she is a "more difficult" baby than their other child, who was term. What should the nurse's explanation include? a. Infants' temperaments are part of their unique characteristics. b. Infants become less difficult if they are not kept on scheduled feedings and structured routines. c. The infant's behavior is suggestive of failure to bond completely with her parents. d. The infant's difficult temperament is the result of painful experiences in the neonatal period.

a. Infants' temperaments are part of their unique characteristics. Infant temperament has a strong biologic component. Together with interactions with the environment, primarily the family, the biologic component contributes to the infant's unique temperament. Children perceived as difficult may respond better to scheduled feedings and structured caregiving routines than to demand feedings and frequent changes in routines. The infant's temperament has been created by both biologic and environmental factors. The nurse should provide guidance in parenting techniques that are best suited to the infant's temperament.

The nurse must assess a 10-month-old infant. The infant is sitting on the father's lap and appears to be afraid of the nurse and of what might happen next. Which initial action by the nurse would be most appropriate? a. Initiate a game of peek-a-boo. b. Ask father to place the infant on the examination table. c. Undress the infant while he is still sitting on his father's lap. d. Talk softly to the infant while taking him from his father.

a. Initiate a game of peek-a-boo. Peek-a-boo is an excellent means of initiating communication with infants while maintaining a safe, nonthreatening distance. The child will most likely become upset if separated from his father. As much of the assessment as possible should be done on the father's lap. The nurse should have the father undress the child as needed for the examination.

Which is the leading cause of death during the toddler period? a. Injuries b. Infectious diseases c. Congenital disorders d. Childhood diseases

a. Injuries Injuries are the single most common cause of death in children ages 1 through 4 years. This represents the highest rate of death from injuries of any childhood age group except adolescence. Infectious diseases and childhood diseases are less common causes of deaths in this age group. Congenital disorders are the second leading cause of death in this age group.

Play serves many purposes. In teaching parents about appropriate activities, the nurse should inform them that play serves which of the following function? (Select all that apply.) a. Intellectual development b. Physical development c. Socialization d. Creativity e. Temperament development

a. Intellectual development c. Socialization d. Creativity A common statement is that play is the work of childhood. Intellectual development is enhanced through the manipulation and exploration of objects. Socialization is encouraged by interpersonal activities and learning of social roles. In addition, creativity is developed through the experimentation characteristic of imaginative play. Physical development depends on many factors; play is not one of them. Temperament refers to behavioral tendencies that are observable from the time of birth. The actual behaviors, but not the child's temperament attributes, may be modified through play.

Which gross motor milestones should the nurse assess in an 18- month-old child? (Select all that apply.) a. Jumps in place with both feet b. Takes a few steps on tiptoe c. Throws ball overhand without falling d. Pulls and pushes toys e. Stands on one foot momentarily

a. Jumps in place with both feet c. Throws ball overhand without falling d. Pulls and pushes toys An 18-month-old child can jump in place with both feet, throw a ball overhand without falling, and pull and push toys. Taking a few steps on tiptoe and standing on one foot momentarily is not acquired until 30 months of age.

The nurse is observing parents playing with their 10-month-old child. Which should the nurse recognize as evidence that the child is developing object permanence? a. Looks for the toy that parents hide under the blanket b. Returns the blocks to the same spot on the table c. Recognizes that a ball of clay is the same when flattened out d. Bangs two cubes held in her hands

a. Looks for the toy that parents hide under the blanket Object permanence is the realization that items that leave the visual field still exist. When the infant searches for the toy under the blanket, it is an indication that object permanence has developed. Returning the blocks to the same spot on the table is not an example of object permanence. Recognizing that a ball of clay is the same when flattened out is an example of conservation, which occurs during the concrete operations stage from 7 to 11 years. Banging two cubes together is a simple repetitive activity characteristic of developing a sense of cause and effect.

The parents of a 4-month-old infant tell the nurse that they are getting a microwave oven and will be able to heat the baby's formula faster. What should the nurse recommend? a. Never heat a bottle in a microwave oven. b. Heat only 10 ounces or more. c. Always leave bottle top uncovered to allow heat to escape. d. Shake bottle vigorously for at least 30 seconds after heating.

a. Never heat a bottle in a microwave oven. Bottles cannot be heated safely in microwave ovens even if safe guidelines are followed and regardless of the amount to be heated due to uneven heating and possible burns.

A 3-month-old infant, born at 38 weeks of gestation, will hold a rattle if it is put in her hands, but she will not voluntarily grasp it. How should the nurse interpret this action? a. Normal development b. Significant developmental lag c. Slightly delayed development due to prematurity d. Suggestive of a neurologic disordersuch as cerebral palsy

a. Normal development Holding a rattle but not voluntarily grasping it is indicative of normal development. Reflexive grasping occurs during the first 2 to 3 months and then gradually becomes voluntary. The infant is expected to be able to perform this task by age 3 months. If the child's age is corrected because of being 2 weeks preterm, the child is at the midpoint of the range for this developmental task and the behavior is age appropriate. No evidence of neurologic dysfunction is present.

The nurse is doing a routine assessment on a 14-month-old infant and notes that the anterior fontanel is closed. How should the nurse interpret this finding? a. Normal finding b. Finding requiring a referral c. Abnormal finding d. Normal finding, but requires rechecking in 1 month

a. Normal finding This is a normal finding. The anterior fontanel closes between ages 12 and 18 months. No further intervention is required.

Which technique is best for dealing with the negativism of the toddler? a. Offer the child choices. b. Remain serious and intent. c. Provide few or no choices for child. d. Quietly and calmly ask the child to comply.

a. Offer the child choices. The child should have few opportunities to respond in a negative manner. Questions and requests should provide choices. This allows the child to be in control and reduces opportunities for negativism. The child will continue trying to assert control. The toddler is too young for verbal explanations. The negativism is the child testing limits. These should be clearly defined by structured choices.

Which is an appropriate play activity for a 7-month-old infant to encourage visual stimulation? a. Playing peek-a-boo b. Playing pat-a-cake c. Imitating animal sounds d. Showing how to clap hands

a. Playing peek-a-boo Because object permanence is a new achievement, peek-a-boo is an excellent activity to practice this new skill for visual stimulation. Pat-a-cake and showing how to clap hands will help with kinetic stimulation. Imitating animal sounds will help with auditory stimulation.

In terms of gross motor development, which should the nurse expect a 5-month-old infant to do? (Select all that apply.) a. Roll from abdomen to back. b. Put feet in mouth when supine. c. Roll from back to abdomen. d. Sit erect without support. e. Move from prone to sitting position. f. Adjust posture to reach an object.

a. Roll from abdomen to back. b. Put feet in mouth when supine. Rolling from abdomen and to back and placing the feet in the mouth when supine are developmentally appropriate for a 5-month-old infant. The ability to roll from back to abdomen usually occurs at 6 months old. Sitting erect without support is a developmental milestone usually achieved by 8 months. The 10-month-old infant can usually move from a prone to a sitting position. The 8-month-old infant adjusts posture to reach an object.

A parent of an 18-month-old boy tells the nurse that he says "no" to everything and has rapid mood swings. If he is scolded, he shows anger and then immediately wants to be held. The nurse's best interpretation of this behavior is included in which statement? a. This is normal behavior for his age. b. This is unusual behavior for his age. c. He is not effectively coping with stress. d. He is showing he needs more attention.

a. This is normal behavior for his age. Toddlers use distinct behaviors in the quest for autonomy. They express their will with continued negativity and the use of the word "no." Children at this age also have rapid mood swings. The nurse should reassure the parents that their child is engaged in expected behavior for an 18-month-old. Having a rapid mood swing is an expected behavior for a toddler.

In terms of fine motor development, what should the infant of 7 months be able to do? a. Transfer objects from one hand to the other and bang cubes on a table. b. Use thumb and index finger in crude pincer grasp and release an object at will. c. Hold a crayon between the fingers and make a mark on paper. d. Release cubes into a cup and build a tower of two blocks.

a. Transfer objects from one hand to the other and bang cubes on a table. By age 7 months, infants can transfer objects from one hand to the other, crossing the midline, and bang objects on a hard surface. The crude pincer grasp is apparent at about age 9 months, and releasing an object at will is seen around 8 months. The child can scribble spontaneously at age 15 months. At age 12 months, the child can release cubes into a cup and build a small tower.

A nurse is performing an otoscopic exam on a school-age child. Which direction should the nurse pull the pinna for this age of child? a. Up and back b. Down and back c. Straight back d. Straight up

a. Up and back With older children, usually those older than 3 years of age, the canal curves downward and forward. Therefore, pull the pinna up and back during otoscopic examinations. In infants, the canal curves upward. Therefore, pull the pinna down and back to straighten the canal. Pulling the pinna straight back or straight up will not open the inner ear canal.

A nurse places some x-ray contrast the toddler is to drink in a small cup instead of a large cup. Which concept of a toddler's preoperational thinking is the nurse using? a. inability to conserve b. magical thinking c. centration d. irreversibility

a. inability to conserve The nurse is using the toddler's inability to conserve. This is when the toddler is unable to understand the idea that a mass can be changed in size, shape, volume, or length without losing or adding to the original mass. Instead, toddlers judge what they see by the immediate perceptual clues given to them. A small glass means less amount of contrast. Magical thinking is believing that thoughts are all-powerful and can cause events. Centration is focusing on one aspect rather than considering all possible alternatives. Irreversibility is the inability to undo or reverse the actions initiated, such as being unable to stop doing an action when told.

Place in order the expected sequence of fine motor developmental milestones for an infant beginning with the first milestone achieved and ending with the last milestone achieved. Provide answer using lowercase letters separated by commas (e.g., a, b, c, d, e). a. Voluntary palmar grasp b. Reflex palmar grasp c. Puts objects into a container d. Neat pincer grasp e. Builds a tower of two blocks, but fails

b, a, d, c, e Grasping occurs during the first 2 to 3 months as a reflex and gradually becomes voluntary. By 5 months, infants are able to voluntarily grasp objects. Gradually, the palmar grasp (using the whole hand) is replaced by a pincer grasp (using the thumb and index finger). By 8 to 10 months of age, infants use a crude pincer grasp, and by 11 months, they have progressed to a neat pincer grasp. By 11 months, they put objects into containers and like to remove them. By age 1 year, infants try to build towers of two blocks but fail.

Parents are asking the clinic nurse about an appropriate toy for their toddler. Which response by the nurse is appropriate? a. "Your child would enjoy playing a board game." b. "A toy your child can push or pull would help develop muscles." c. "An action figure toy would be a good choice." d. "A 25-piece puzzle would help your child develop recognition of shapes."

b. "A toy your child can push or pull would help develop muscles." Toys should be appropriate for the child's age. A toddler would benefit from a toy he or she could push or pull. The child is too young for a board game, action figure, or 25-piece puzzle.

The nurse is assessing a 6-month-old healthy infant who weighed 7 pounds at birth. The nurse should expect the infant to now weigh approximately how many pounds? a. 10 b. 15 c. 20 d. 25

b. 15 Birth weight doubles at about age 5 to 6 months. At 6 months, a child who weighed 7 pounds at birth would weigh approximately 15 pounds; 10 pounds is too little. The infant would have gone from the 50th percentile at birth to below the 5th percentile; 20 to 25 pounds is too much. The infant would have tripled the birth weight at 6 months.

Kimberly's parents have been using a rearward-facing, convertible car seat since she was born. Most car seats can be safely switched to the forward-facing position when the child reaches which age? a. 1 b. 2 c. 3 d. 4

b. 2 It is now recommended that all infants and toddlers ride in rear-facing car safety seats until they reach the age of 2 years or height recommended by the car seat manufacturer. Children 2 years old and older who have outgrown the rear-facing height or weight limit for their car safety seat should use a forward-facing car safety seat with a harness up to the maximum height or weight recommended by the manufacturer. One year is too young to switch to a forward-facing position.

Parents of an 8-year-old child ask the nurse how many inches their child should grow each year. The nurse bases the answer on the knowledge that after age 7 years, school- age children usually grow what number of inches per year? a. 1 b. 2 c. 3 d. 4

b. 2 The growth velocity after age 7 years is approximately 5 cm (2 inches) per year. One inch is too small an amount. Three and 4 inches are greater than the average yearly growth after age 7 years.

At what age should the nurse expect an infant to begin smiling in response to pleasurable stimuli? a. 1 month b. 2 months c. 3 months d. 4 months

b. 2 months At age 2 months, the infant has a social, responsive smile. A reflex smile is usually present at age 1 month. The 3-month-old can recognize familiar faces. At age 4 months, the infant can enjoy social interactions.

What is the earliest age at which a satisfactory radial pulse can be taken in children? a. 1 year b. 2 years c. 3 years d. 6 years

b. 2 years Satisfactory radial pulses can be used in children older than 2 years. In infants and young children, the apical pulse is more reliable. The apical pulse can be used for assessment at these ages.

Parents of a newborn are concerned because the infant's eyes often "look crossed" when the infant is looking at an object. The nurse's response is that this is normal based on the knowledge that binocularity is normally present by what age? a. 1 month b. 3 to 4 months c. 6 to 8 months d. 12 months

b. 3 to 4 months Binocularity is usually achieved by ages 3 to 4 months. 1 month is too young. If binocularity is not achieved by ages 6 to 12 months, the child must be observed for strabismus.

The nurse is discussing development and play activities with the parent of a 2-month-old. Recommendations should include giving a first rattle at about which age? a. 2 months b. 4 months c. 7 months d. 9 months

b. 4 months It is recommended that a brightly colored toy or rattle be given to the child at age 4 months. Grasping has begun as a deliberate act, and the infant grasps, holds, and begins shaking to hear a noise; 2 months is too young. The infant still has primarily reflex grips; 7 to 9 months is too old for the first rattle. The child should be given toys that provide for further exploration.

What is the best age for solid food to be introduced into the infant's diet? a. 2 to 3 months b. 4 to 6 months c. When birth weight has tripled d. When tooth eruption has started

b. 4 to 6 months Physiologically and developmentally, the 4- to 6-month-old infant is in a transition period. The extrusion reflex has disappeared, and swallowing is a more coordinated process. In addition, the gastrointestinal tract has matured sufficiently to handle more complex nutrients and is less sensitive to potentially allergenic food. Infants of this age will try to help during feeding; 2 to 3 months is too young. The extrusion reflex is strong, and the child will push food out with the tongue. Infant birth weight triples at 1 year. Solid foods can be started earlier. Tooth eruption can facilitate biting and chewing; most infant foods do not require this ability.

A parent asks the nurse "when will my infant start to teethe?" The nurse responds that the earliest age at which an infant begins teething with eruption of lower central incisors is _____ months. a. 4 b. 6 c. 8 d. 12

b. 6 Teething usually begins at age 6 months with the eruption of the lower central incisors; 4 months is too early for teething. By age 8 months, the infant has the upper and lower central incisors. At age 12 months, the infant has six to eight deciduous teeth.

The nurse is meeting a 5-year-old child for the first time and would like the child to cooperate during a dressing change. The nurse decides to do a simple magic trick using gauze. How should this action be interpreted? a. Inappropriate, because of child's age b. A way to establish rapport c. Too distracting, when cooperation is important d. Acceptable, if there is adequate time

b. A way to establish rapport A magic trick or other simple game may help alleviate anxiety for a 5-year-old. It is an excellent method to build rapport and facilitate cooperation during a procedure. Magic tricks appeal to the natural curiosity of young children. The nurse should establish rapport with the child. Failure to do so may cause the procedure to take longer and be more traumatic.

When the nurse interviews an adolescent, which is especially important? a. Focus the discussion on the peer group. b. Allow an opportunity to express feelings. c. Emphasize that confidentiality will always be maintained. d. Use the same type of language as the adolescent.

b. Allow an opportunity to express feelings. Adolescents, like all children, need an opportunity to express their feelings. Often they will interject feelings into their words. The nurse must be alert to the words and feelings expressed. Although the peer group is important to this age group, the focus of the interview should be on the adolescent. The nurse should clarify which information will be shared with other members of the health care team and any limits to confidentiality. The nurse should maintain a professional relationship with adolescents. To avoid misinterpretation of words and phrases that the adolescent may use, the nurse should clarify terms frequently.

The nurse is taking a health history on an adolescent. Which best describes how the chief complaint should be determined? a. Ask for detailed listing of symptoms. b. Ask adolescent, "Why did you come here today?" c. Use what adolescent says to determine, in correct medical terminology, what the problem is. d. Interview parent away from adolescent to determine chief complaint.

b. Ask adolescent, "Why did you come here today?" The chief complaint is the specific reason for the child's visit to the clinic, office, or hospital. Because the adolescent is the focus of the history, this is an appropriate way to determine the chief complaint. A detailed listing of symptoms will make it difficult to determine the chief complaint. The adolescent should be prompted to tell which symptom caused him to seek help at this time. The chief complaint is usually written in the words that the parent or adolescent uses to describe the reason for seeking help. The parent and adolescent may be interviewed separately, but the nurse should determine the reason the adolescent is seeking attention at this time.

The nurse is taking a sexual history on an adolescent girl. Which is the best way to determine whether she is sexually active? a. Ask her, "Are you sexually active?" b. Ask her, "Are you having sex with anyone?" c. Ask her, "Are you having sex with a boyfriend?" d. Ask both the girl and her parent whether she is sexually active.

b. Ask her, "Are you having sex with anyone?" Asking the adolescent girl whether she is having sex with anyone is a direct question that is well understood. The phrase sexually active is broadly defined and may not provide specific information to the nurse to provide necessary care. The word anyone is preferred to using gender-specific terms such as boyfriend or girlfriend. Because homosexual experimentation may occur, it is preferable to use gender-neutral terms. Questioning about sexual activity should occur when the adolescent is alone.

The nurse observes some children in the playroom. Which play situation exhibits the characteristics of parallel play? a. Kimberly and Amanda sharing clay to each make things b. Brian playing with his truck next to Kristina playing with her truck c. Adam playing a board game with Kyle, Steven, and Erich d. Danielle playing with a music box on her mother's lap

b. Brian playing with his truck next to Kristina playing with her truck Playing with trucks next to each other but not together is an example of parallel play. Both children are engaged in similar activities in proximity to each other; however, they are each engaged in their own play. Sharing clay to make things is characteristic of associative play. Friends playing a board game together is characteristic of cooperative play. A child playing with something by herself on her mother's lap is an example of solitary play.

A 5-year-old girl is having a checkup before starting kindergarten. The nurse asks her to do the "finger-to-nose" test. What is the nurse testing for? a. Deep tendon reflexes b. Cerebellar function c. Sensory discrimination d. Ability to follow directions

b. Cerebellar function The finger-to-nose test is an indication of cerebellar function. This test checks balance and coordination. Each deep tendon reflex is tested separately. Each sense is tested separately. Although this test enables the nurse to evaluate the child's ability to follow directions, it is used primarily for cerebellar function.

A school nurse notes that school-age children generally obey the rules at school. The nurse recognizes that the children are displaying which stage of moral development? a. Preconventional b. Conventional c. Postconventional d. Undifferentiated

b. Conventional Conventional stage of moral development is described as obeying the rules, doing one's duty, showing respect for authority, and maintaining the social order. This stage is characteristic of school-age children's behavior. The preconventional stage is characteristic of the toddler and preschool age. At this stage, the child has no concept of the basic moral order that supports being good or bad. The postconventional level is characteristic of an adolescent and occurs at the formal stage of operation. Undifferentiated describes an infant's understanding of moral development.

A mother reports that her 6-year-old child is highly active, irritable, and irregular in habits and that the child adapts slowly to new routines, people, or situations. How should the nurse chart this type of temperament? a. Easy b. Difficult c. Slow-to-warm-up d. Fast-to-warm-up

b. Difficult Being highly active, irritable, irregular in habits, and adapting slowly to new routines, people, or situations is a description of difficult children, which compose about 10% of the population. Negative withdrawal responses are typical of this type of child, who requires a more structured environment. Mood expressions are usually intense and primarily negative. These children exhibit frequent periods of crying and often violent tantrums. Easy children are even tempered, regular, and predictable in their habits. They are open and adaptable to change. Approximately 40% of children fit this description. Slow-to-warm-up children typically react negatively and with mild intensity to new stimuli and adapt slowly with repeated contact. Approximately 10% of children fit this description. "Fast-to-warm-up" is not one of the categories identified.

Which should the nurse teach to parents of toddlers about accidental poison prevention? (Select all that apply.) a. Keep toxic substances in the garage. b. Discard empty poison containers. c. Know the number of the nearest poison control center. d. Remove colorful labels from containers of toxic substances. e. Caution child against eating nonedible items, such as plants.

b. Discard empty poison containers. c. Know the number of the nearest poison control center. e. Caution child against eating nonedible items, such as plants. To prevent accidental poisoning, parents should be taught to promptly discard empty poison containers, know the number of the nearest poison control center, and to caution the child against eating nonedible items, such as plants. Parents should place all potentially toxic agents, including cosmetics, personal care items, cleaning products, pesticides, and medications in a locked cabinet, not in the garage. Parents should be taught to never remove labels from containers of toxic substances.

Which information should the nurse give a mother regarding the introduction of solid foods during infancy? a. Solid foods should not be introduced until 8 to 10 months, when the extrusion reflex begins to disappear. b. Foods should be introduced one at a time, at intervals of 4 to 7 days. c. Solid foods can be mixed in a bottle to make the transition easier for the infant. d. Fruits and vegetables should be introduced into the diet first.

b. Foods should be introduced one at a time, at intervals of 4 to 7 days. One food item is introduced at intervals of 4 to 7 days to allow the identification of food allergies. Solid foods can be introduced earlier than 8 to 10 months. The extrusion reflex usually disappears by age 6 months. Mixing solid foods in a bottle has no effect on the transition to solid food. Iron-fortified cereal should be the first solid food introduced into the infant's diet.

Which should the nurse expect for a toddler's language development at age 18 months? a. Vocabulary of 25 words b. Increasing level of comprehension c. Use of holophrases d. Approximately one third of speech understandable

b. Increasing level of comprehension During the second year of life, level of comprehension and understanding of speech increases and is far greater than the child's vocabulary. This is also true for bilingual children, who are able to achieve this linguistic milestone in both languages. The 18-month-old child has a vocabulary of 10 or more words. At this age, the child does not use the one-word sentences that are characteristic of the 1-year-old child. The child has a limited vocabulary of single words that are comprehensible.

A 12-year-old child enjoys collecting stamps, playing soccer, and participating in Boy Scout activities. The nurse recognizes that the child is displaying which developmental task? a. Identity b. Industry c. Integrity d. Intimacy

b. Industry Industry is engaging in tasks that can be carried through to completion, learning to compete and cooperate with others, and learning rules. Industry is the developmental task characteristic of the school-age child. Identity is the developmental task of adolescence. Integrity and intimacy are not developmental tasks of childhood.

Which is most important to document about immunizations in the child's health history? a. Dosage of immunizations received b. Occurrence of any reaction after an immunization c. The exact date the immunizations were received d. Practitioner who administered the immunizations

b. Occurrence of any reaction after an immunization

What is the most effective way to clean a toddler's teeth? a. Child to brush regularly with a toothpaste of his or her choice b. Parent to stabilize the chin with one hand and brush with the other c. Parent to brush the mandibular occlusive surfaces, leaving the rest for the child d. Parent to brush the front labial surfaces, leaving the rest for the child

b. Parent to stabilize the chin with one hand and brush with the other For young children, the most effective cleaning of teeth is by the parents. Different positions can be used if the child's back is to the adult. The adult should use one hand to stabilize the chin and the other to brush the child's teeth. The child can participate in brushing, but for a thorough cleaning, adult intervention is necessary.

Which are characteristic of physical development of a 30-month-old child? (Select all that apply.) a. Birth weight has doubled. b. Primary dentition is complete. c. Sphincter control is achieved. d. Anterior fontanel is open. e. Length from birth is doubled. f. Left- or right-handedness is established.

b. Primary dentition is complete. c. Sphincter control is achieved. Usually by age 30 months, the primary dentition of 20 teeth is completed, and the child has sphincter control in preparation for bowel and bladder control. Birth weight doubles at approximately ages 5 to 6 months. The anterior fontanel closes at age 12 to 18 months. Birth length is doubled around age 4. Left- or right- handedness is not established until about age 5.

Which is descriptive of a toddler's cognitive development at age 20 months? a. Searches for an object only if he or she sees it being hidden b. Realizes that "out of sight" is not out of reach c. Puts objects into a container but cannot take them out d. Understands the passage of time, such as "just a minute" and "in an hour"

b. Realizes that "out of sight" is not out of reach At this age, the child is in the final sensorimotor stage. Children will now search for an object in several potential places, even though they saw only the original hiding place. Children have a more developed sense of objective permanence. They will search for objects even if they have not seen them hidden. When a child puts objects into a container but cannot take them out, this is indicative of tertiary circular reactions. An embryonic sense of time exists, although the children may behave appropriately to time-oriented phrases; their sense of timing is exaggerated.

A nurse is teaching a parent about introduction of solid foods into an infant's diet. Which should the nurse include in the teaching session? (Select all that apply.) a. Solid food introduction can be started at 2 months of age. b. Rice cereal is introduced first. c. Begin the introduction of solid foods by mixing with formula in the bottle. d. Introduce egg white in small quantities (1 tsp) toward the end of the first year. e. Introduce one food at a time, usually at intervals of 4 to 7 days.

b. Rice cereal is introduced first. d. Introduce egg white in small quantities (1 tsp) toward the end of the first year. e. Introduce one food at a time, usually at intervals of 4 to 7 days. Rice cereal, because of its low allergenic potential, is the first solid food introduced to an infant at 4 to 6 months of age. Introduce one food at a time, usually at intervals of 4 to 7 days, to identify food allergies. Introduce egg white in small quantities (1 tsp) toward the end of the first year to detect an allergy. Solid food introduction should be started at 4 to 6 months of age. Never introduce foods by mixing them with the formula in a bottle.

Which play item should the nurse bring from the playroom to a hospitalized toddler in isolation? a. Small plastic Lego b. Set of large plastic building blocks c. Brightly colored balloon d. Coloring book and crayons

b. Set of large plastic building blocks Play objects for toddlers must still be chosen with an awareness of danger from small parts. Large, sturdy toys without sharp edges or removable parts are safest. Large plastic blocks are appropriate for a toddler in isolation. Small plastic toys such as Lego can cause choking or can be aspirated. Balloons can cause significant harm if swallowed or aspirated. Coloring book and crayons would be too advanced for a toddler.

Which is an appropriate recommendation for preventing tooth decay in young children? a. Substitute raisins for candy. b. Substitute sugarless gum for regular gum. c. Use honey or molasses instead of refined sugar. d. When sweets are to be eaten, select a time not during meals.

b. Substitute sugarless gum for regular gum. Regular gum has high sugar content. When the child chews gum, the sugar is in prolonged contact with the teeth. Sugarless gum is less cariogenic than regular gum. Raisins, honey, and molasses are highly cariogenic and should be avoided. Sweets should be consumed with meals so that the teeth can be cleaned afterward. This decreases the amount of time that the sugar is in contact with the teeth.

The nurse must check vital signs on a 2-year-old boy who is brought to the clinic for his 24-month checkup. What criteria should the nurse use in determining the appropriate-size blood pressure cuff? (Select all that apply.) a. The cuff is labeled "toddler." b. The cuff bladder width is approximately 40% of the circumference of the upper arm. c. The cuff bladder length covers 80% to 100% of the circumference of the upper arm. d. The cuff bladder covers 50% to 66% of the length of the upper arm.

b. The cuff bladder width is approximately 40% of the circumference of the upper arm. c. The cuff bladder length covers 80% to 100% Research has demonstrated that cuff selection with a bladder width that is 40% of the arm circumference will usually have a bladder length that is 80% to 100% of the upper arm circumference. This size cuff will most accurately reflect measured radial artery pressure. The name of the cuff is a representative size that may not be suitable for any individual child. Choosing a cuff by limb circumference more accurately reflects arterial pressure than choosing a cuff by length.

What should the nurse consider when discussing language development with parents of toddlers? a. Sentences by toddlers include adverbs and adjectives. b. The toddler expresses himself or herself with verbs or combination words. c. The toddler uses simple sentences. d. Pronouns are used frequently by the toddler.

b. The toddler expresses himself or herself with verbs or combination words. The first parts of speech used are nouns, sometimes verbs (e.g., "go"), and combination words (e.g., "bye-bye"). Responses are usually structurally incomplete during the toddler period. The preschool child begins to use adjectives and adverbs to qualify nouns followed by adverbs to qualify nouns and verbs. Pronouns are not added until the later preschool years. By the time children enter school, they are able to use simple, structurally complete sentences that average five to seven words.

Two toddlers are playing in a sandbox when one child suddenly grabs a toy from the other child. Which is the best interpretation of this behavior? a. This is typical behavior because toddlers are aggressive. b. This is typical behavior because toddlers are egocentric. c. Toddlers should know that sharing toys is expected of them. d. Toddlers should have the cognitive ability to know right from wrong.

b. This is typical behavior because toddlers are egocentric. Play develops from the solitary play of infancy to the parallel play of toddlers. The toddler plays alongside other children, not with them. This typical behavior of the toddler is not intentionally aggressive. Shared play is not within their cognitive development. Toddlers do not conceptualize shared play. Because the toddler cannot view the situation from the perspective of the other child, it is okay to take the toy. Therefore, no right or wrong is associated with taking a toy.

A visitor arrives at a daycare center during lunchtime. The preschool children think that every time they have lunch a visitor will arrive. Which preoperational characteristic is being displayed? a. Egocentrism b. Transductive reasoning c. Intuitive reasoning d. Conservation

b. Transductive reasoning Transductive reasoning is when two events occur together, they cause each other. The expectation that every time lunch is served a visitor will arrive is descriptive of transductive reasoning. Egocentrism is the inability to see things from any perspective than their own. Intuitive reasoning (e.g., the stars have to go to bed just as they do) is predominantly egocen- tric thought. Conservation (able to realize that physical factors such as volume, weight, and number remain the same even though outward appearances are changed) does not occur until school age.

What is an important consideration for the nurse who is communicating with a very young child? a. Speak loudly, clearly, and directly. b. Use transition objects, such as a doll. c. Disguise own feelings, attitudes, and anxiety. d. Initiate contact with child when parent is not present.

b. Use transition objects, such as a doll. Using a transition object allows the young child an opportunity to evaluate an unfamiliar person (the nurse). This will facilitate communication with a child this age. Speaking in this manner will tend to increase anxiety in very young children. The nurse must be honest with the child. Attempts at deception will lead to a lack of trust. Whenever possible, the parent should be present for interactions with young children.

The clinic is lending a federally approved car seat to an infant's family. The nurse should explain that the safest place to put the car seat is: a. front facing in back seat. b. rear facing in back seat. c. front facing in front seat with air bag on passenger side. d. rear facing in front seat if an air bag is on the passenger side.

b. rear facing in back seat. The rear-facing car seat provides the best protection for an infant's disproportionately heavy head and weak neck. The middle of the back seat is the safest position for the child. The infant must be rear facing to protect the head and neck in the event of an accident. Severe injuries and deaths in children have occurred from air bags deploying on impact in the front passenger seat.

A nurse is counseling an adolescent, in her second month of pregnancy, about the risk of teratogens. The adolescent has understood the teaching if she makes which statement? a. "I will be able to continue taking isotretinoin (Accutane) for my acne." b. "I can continue to clean my cat's litter box." c. "I should avoid any alcoholic beverages." d. "I will ask my physician to adjust my phenytoin (Dilantin) dosage."

c. "I should avoid any alcoholic beverages." Teratogens are agents that cause birth defects when present in the prenatal period. Avoidance of alcoholic beverages is recommended to prevent fetal alcohol syndrome. Isotretinoin (Accutane) and phenytoin (Dilantin) have been shown to have teratogenic effects and should not be taken during pregnancy. Cytomegalovirus, an infectious agent and a teratogen, can be transmitted through cat feces, and cleaning the litter box during pregnancy should be avoided.

he parent of a 2-week-old infant, exclusively breastfed, asks the nurse if fluoride supplements are needed. What is the nurse's best response? a. "She needs to begin taking them now." b. "They are not needed if you drink fluoridated water." c. "She may need to begin taking them at age 4 months." d. "She can have infant cereal mixed with fluoridated water instead of supplements."

c. "She may need to begin taking them at age 4 months." Fluoride supplementation is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics beginning at age 4 months if the child is not drinking adequate amounts of fluoridated water. The amount of water that is ingested and the amount of fluoride in the water are taken into account when supplementation is being considered.

Parents need further teaching about the use of car safety seats if they make which statement? a. "Even if our toddler helps buckle the straps, we will double-check the fastenings." b. "We won't start the car until everyone is properly restrained." c. "We won't need to use the car seat on short trips to the store." d. "We will anchor the car seat to the car's anchoring system."

c. "We won't need to use the car seat on short trips to the store." Parents need to be taught to always use the restraint even for short trips. Further teaching is needed if they make this statement. Parents have understood the teaching if they encourage the child to help attach buckles, straps, and shields but always double-check fastenings; do not start the car until everyone is properly restrained; and anchor the car safety seat securely to the car's anchoring system and apply the harness snugly to the child.

A nurse notes that a 10-month-old infant has a larger head circumference than chest. The nurse interprets this as a normal finding because the head and chest circumference become equal at which age? a. 1 month b. 6 to 9 months c. 1 to 2 years d. 3 years

c. 1 to 2 years Head circumference begins larger than chest circumference. Between ages 1 and 2 years, they become approximately equal. Head circumference is larger than chest circumference before age 1. Chest circumference is larger than head circumference at about 3 years.

By which age should the nurse expect an infant to be able to pull to a standing position? a. 6 months b. 8 months c. 11 to 12 months d. 14 to 15 months

c. 11 to 12 months Most infants can pull themselves to a standing position at age 9 months. Infants who are not able to pull themselves to standing by age 11 to 12 months should be further evaluated for developmental dysplasia of the hip. At 6 months, infants have just obtained coordination of arms and legs. By age 8 months, infants can bear full weight on their legs. Any infant who cannot pull to a standing position by age 1 year should be referred for further evaluation.

The nurse should teach parents that which age is safe to give infants whole milk instead of commercial infant formula? a. 6 months b. 9 months c. 12 months d. 18 months

c. 12 months The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend the use of cow's milk for children younger than 12 months. At 6 and 9 months, the infant should be receiving commercial infant formula or breast milk. At age 18 months, milk and formula are supplemented with solid foods, water, and some fruit juices.

At what age does an infant start to recognize familiar faces and objects, such as a feeding bottle? a. 1 month b. 2 months c. 3 months d. 4 months

c. 3 months The child can recognize familiar objects at approximately age 3 months. For the first 2 months of life, infants watch and observe their surroundings. The 4-month- old infant is able to anticipate feeding after seeing the bottle.

The nurse is testing an infant's visual acuity. By what age should the infant be able to fix on and follow a target? a. 1 month b. 1 to 2 months c. 3 to 4 months d. 6 months

c. 3 to 4 months Visual fixation and following a target should be present by ages 3 to 4 months. One to 2 months is too young for this developmental milestone. If the infant is not able to fix and follow by 6 months, further ophthalmologic evaluation is needed.

By what age does birth length usually double? a. 1 year b. 2 years c. 4 years d. 6 years

c. 4 years Linear growth or height occurs almost entirely as a result of skeletal growth and is considered a stable measurement of general growth. On average, most children have doubled their birth length at age 4 years. One and 2 years are too young for doubling of length. Most children will have achieved the doubling by age 4 years.

A parent asks the nurse "at what age do most infants begin to fear strangers?" The nurse should give which response? a. 2 months b. 4 months c. 6 months d. 12 months

c. 6 months Between ages 6 and 8 months, fear of strangers and stranger anxiety become prominent and are related to the infant's ability to discriminate between familiar and unfamiliar people. At 2 months, infants are just beginning to respond differentially to the mother. At age 4 months, the infant is beginning the process of separation-individuation when the infant begins to recognize self and mother as separate beings. Twelve months is too late and requires referral for evaluation if the child does not fear strangers at this age.

At what age can most infants sit steadily unsupported? a. 4 months b. 6 months c. 8 months d. 10 months

c. 8 months Sitting erect without support is a developmental milestone usually achieved by 8 months. At age 4 months, an infant can sit with support. At age 6 months, the infant will maintain a sitting position if propped. By 10 months, the infant can maneuver from a prone to a sitting position.

A nurse is counseling parents of a child beginning to show signs of being overweight. The nurse accurately relates which body mass index (BMI)-for-age percentile indicates a risk for being overweight? a. 10th percentile b. 9th percentile c. 85th percentile d. 95th percentile

c. 85th percentile Children who have BMI-for-age greater than or equal to the 85th percentile and less than the 95th percentile are at risk for being overweight. Children in the 9th and 10th percentiles are within normal limits. Children who are greater than or equal to the 95th percentile are considered overweight.

A nurse is conducting a teaching session for parents of infants. The nurse explains that which behavior indicates that an infant has developed object permanence? a. Recognizes familiar, such as mother b. Recognizes familiar objects, such as bottle c. Actively searches for a hidden object d. Secures objects by pulling on a string

c. Actively searches for a hidden object During the first 6 months of life, infants believe that objects exist only as long as they can see them. When infants search for an object that is out of sight, this signals the attainment of object permanence, whereby an infant knows an object exists even when it is not visible. Between ages 8 and 12 weeks, infants begin to respond differentially to the mother. They cry, smile, vocalize, and show distinct preference for the mother. This preference is one of the stages that influences the attachment process but is too early for object permanence. Recognizing familiar objects is an important transition for the infant, but it does not signal object permanence. The ability to understand cause and effect is part of secondary schemata development.

When interviewing the mother of a 3-year-old child, the nurse asks about developmental milestones such as the age of walking without assistance. How should this question be considered? a. Unnecessary information because child is age 3 years b. An important part of the family history c. An important part of the child's past history d. An important part of the child's review of systems

c. An important part of the child's past history Information about the attainment of developmental milestones is important to obtain. It provides data about the child's growth and development that should be included in the past history. Developmental milestones provide important information about the child's physical, social, and neurologic health and should be included in the history for a 3-year-old child. If pertinent, attainment of milestones by siblings would be included in the family history. The review of systems does not include the developmental milestones.

In which type of play are children engaged in similar or identical activity, without organization, division of labor, or mutual goal? a. Solitary b. Parallel c. Associative d. Cooperative

c. Associative In associative play, no group goal is present. Each child acts according to his or her own wishes. Although the children may be involved in similar activities, no organization, division of labor, leadership assignment, or mutual goal exists. Solitary play describes children playing alone with toys different from those used by other children in the same area. Parallel play describes children playing independently but being among other children. Cooperative play is organized. Children play in a group with other children who play in activities for a common goal.

The child of 15 to 30 months is likely to be struggling with which developmental task? a. Trust b. Initiative c. Autonomy d. Intimacy

c. Autonomy Autonomy vs shame and doubt is the developmental task of toddlers. Trust vs mistrust is the developmental stage of infancy. Initiative vs guilt is the developmental stage of early childhood. Intimacy and solidarity vs isolation is the developmental stage of early adulthood.

A nurse is assessing a 12-month-old infant. Which statement best describes the infant's physical development a nurse should expect to find? a. Anterior fontanel closes by age 6 to 10 months. b. Binocularity is well established by age 8 months. c. Birth weight doubles by age 5 months and triples by age 1 year. d. Maternal iron stores persist during the first 12 months of life.

c. Birth weight doubles by age 5 months and triples by age 1 year. Growth is very rapid during the first year of life. The birth weight has approximately doubled by age 5 to 6 months and triples by age 1 year. The anterior fontanel closes at age 12 to 18 months. Binocularity is not established until age 15 months. Maternal iron stores are usually depleted by age 6 months.

A mother tells the nurse that she is discontinuing breastfeeding her 5-month-old infant. What should the nurse recommend the infant be given? a. Skim milk b. Whole cow's milk c. Commercial iron-fortified formula d. Commercial formula without iron

c. Commercial iron-fortified formula For children younger than 1 year, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the use of breast milk. If breastfeeding has been discontinued, then iron-fortified commercial formula should be used. Cow's milk should not be used in children younger than 12 months. Maternal iron stores are almost depleted by this age; the iron-fortified formula will help prevent the development of iron- deficiency anemia.

A father tells the nurse that his child is "filling up the house with collections" like seashells, bottle caps, baseball cards, and pennies. What should the nurse recognize the child is developing? a. Object permanence b. Preoperational thinking c. Concrete operational thinking d. Ability to use abstract symbols

c. Concrete operational thinking During concrete operations, children develop logical thought processes. They are able to classify, sort, order, and otherwise organize facts about the world. This ability fosters the child's ability to create collections. Object permanence is the realization that items that leave the visual field still exist. This is a task of infancy and does not contribute to collections. Preoperational thinking is concrete and tangible. Children in this age group cannot reason beyond the observable, and they lack the ability to make deductions or generalizations. Collections are not typical for this developmental level. The ability to use abstract symbols is a characteristic of formal operations, which develops during adolescence. These children can develop and test hypotheses.

Developmentally, what should most children at age 12 months be able to do? a. Use a spoon adeptly b. Relinquish the bottle voluntarily c. Eat the same food as the rest of the family d. Reject all solid food in preference to the bottle

c. Eat the same food as the rest of the family By age 12 months, most children are eating the same food that is prepared for the rest of the family. Using a spoon usually is not mastered until age 18 months. The parents should be engaged in weaning a child from a bottle if that is the source of liquid. Toddlers should be encouraged to drink from a cup at the first birthday and be weaned from the bottle totally by 14 months. The child should be weaned from a milk- or formula-based diet to a balanced diet that includes iron- rich sources of food.

An 8-year-old girl asks the nurse how the blood pressure apparatus works. What is the most appropriate nursing action? a. Ask her why she wants to know. b. Determine why she is so anxious. c. Explain in simple terms how it works. d. Tell her she will see how it works as it is used.

c. Explain in simple terms how it works. School-age children require explanations and reasons for everything. They are interested in the functional aspect of all procedures, objects, and activities. It is appropriate for the nurse to explain how equipment works and what will happen to the child. A nurse should respond positively for requests for information about procedures and health information. By not responding, the nurse may be limiting communication with the child. The child is not exhibiting anxiety, just requesting clarification of what will be occurring. The nurse must explain how the blood pressure cuff works so that the child can then observe during the procedure.

Which family theory explains how families react to stressful events and suggests factors that promote adaptation to these events? a. Interactional theory b. Developmental systems theory c. Family stress theory d. Duvall's developmental theory

c. Family stress theory Family stress theory explains the reaction of families to stressful events. In addition, the theory helps suggest factors that promote adaptation to the stress. Stressors, both positive and negative, are cumulative and affect the family. Adaptation requires a change in family structure or interaction. Interactional theory is not a family theory. Interactions are the basis of general systems theory. Developmental systems theory is an outgrowth of Duvall's theory. The family is described as a small group, a semiclosed system of personalities that interact with the larger cultural system. Changes do not occur in one part of the family without changes in others. Duvall's developmental theory describes eight developmental tasks of the family throughout its life span.

Which behavior is most characteristic of the concrete operations stage of cognitive development? a. Progression from reflex activity to imitative behavior b. Inability to put oneself in another's place c. Increasingly logical and coherent thought processes d. Ability to think in abstract terms and draw logical conclusions

c. Increasingly logical and coherent thought processes During the concrete operations stage of development, which occurs approximately between ages 7 and 11 years, increasingly logical and coherent thought processes occur. This is characterized by the child's ability to classify, sort, order, and organize facts to use in problem solving. The progression from reflex activity to imitative behavior is characteristic of the sensorimotor stage of development. The inability to put oneself in another's place is characteristic of the preoperational stage of development. The ability to think in abstract terms and draw logical conclusions is characteristic of the formal operations stage of development.

Place in order the sequence of cephalocaudal development that the nurse expects to find in the infant. Begin with the first development expected, sequencing to the final. a. Crawl b. Sit unsupported c. Lift head when prone d. Gain complete head control e. Walk

c. Lift head when prone d. Gain complete head control b. Sit unsupported a. Crawl e. Walk Cephalocaudal development is head-to-tail. Infants achieve structural control of the head before they have control of their trunks and extremities, they lift their head while prone, obtain complete head control, sit unsupported, crawl, and walk sequentially.

When doing a nutritional assessment on a Hispanic family, the nurse learns that their diet consists mainly of vegetables, legumes, and starches. How should the nurse assess this diet? a. Indicates they live in poverty b. Is lacking in protein c. May provide sufficient amino acids d. Should be enriched with meat and milk

c. May provide sufficient amino acids The diet that contains vegetable, legumes, and starches may provide sufficient essential amino acids, even though the actual amount of meat or dairy protein is low. Many cultures use diets that contain this combination of foods. It is not indicative of poverty. Combinations of foods contain the essential amino acids necessary for growth. A dietary assessment should be done, but many vegetarian diets are sufficient for growth.

During a routine health assessment, the nurse notes that an 8-month-old infant has significant head lag. Which is the nurse's most appropriate action? a. Teach parents appropriate exercises. b. Recheck head control at next visit. c. Refer child for further evaluation. d. Refer child for further evaluation if anterior fontanel is still open.

c. Refer child for further evaluation. Significant head lag after age 6 months strongly indicates cerebral injury and is referred for further evaluation. Reduction of head lag is part of normal development. Exercises will not be effective. The lack of achievement of this developmental milestone must be evaluated.

A nurse is assigned to four children of different ages. In which age group should the nurse understand that body integrity is a concern? a. Toddler b. Preschooler c. School-age child d. Adolescent

c. School-age child School-age children have a heightened concern about body integrity. They place importance and value on their bodies and are oversensitive to anything that constitutes a threat or suggestion of injury. Body integrity is not as important a concern to toddlers, preschoolers, or adolescents.

According to Piaget, the 6-month-old infant should be in which developmental stage? a. Use of reflexes b. Primary circular reactions c. Secondary circular reactions d. Coordination of secondary schemata

c. Secondary circular reactions Infants are usually in the secondary circular reaction stage from ages 4 to 8 months. This stage is characterized by a continuation of the primary circular reaction for the response that results. Shaking is performed to hear the noise of the rattle, not just for shaking. The use of reflexes is primarily during the first month of life. Primary circular reaction stage marks the replacement of reflexes with voluntary acts. The infant is in this stage from ages 1 to 4 months. The fourth sensorimotor stage is coordination of secondary schemata. This is a transitional stage in which increasing motor skills enable greater exploration of the environment.

Although a 14-month-old girl received a shock from an electric outlet recently, her parent finds her about to place a paper clip in another outlet. Which is the best interpretation of this behavior? a. Her cognitive development is delayed. b. This is typical behavior because toddlers are not very developed. c. This is typical behavior because of the inability to transfer knowledge to new situations. d. This is not typical behavior because toddlers should know better than to repeat an act that caused pain.

c. This is typical behavior because of the inability to transfer knowledge to new situations. During the tertiary circular reactions stage, children have only a rudimentary sense of the classification of objects. The appearance of an object denotes its function for these children. The slot of an outlet is for putting things into. Her cognitive development is appropriate for her age. Trying to put things into an outlet is typical behavior for a toddler. Only some awareness exists of a causal relation between events.

In the clinic waiting room, a nurse observes a parent showing an 18-month-old child how to make a tower out of blocks. What should the nurse recognize in this situation? a. Blocks at this age are used primarily for throwing b. Toddlers are too young to imitate the behavior of others c. Toddlers are capable of building a tower of blocks d. Toddlers are too young to build a tower of blocks

c. Toddlers are capable of building a tower of blocks Building with blocks is a good parent-child interaction. The 18-month-old child is capable of building a tower of three or four blocks. The ability to build towers of blocks usually begins at age 15 months. With ongoing development, the child is able to build taller towers. The 18-month-old child imitates others around him or her.

A nurse is preparing to perform a physical assessment on a toddler. Which approach should the nurse use for this child? a. Always proceed in a head-to-toe direction. b. Perform traumatic procedures first. c. Use minimal physical contact initially. d. Demonstrate use of equipment.

c. Use minimal physical contact initially. Parents can remove clothing, and the child can remain on the parent's lap. The nurse should use minimal physical contact initially to gain the child's cooperation. The head-to-toe assessment can be done in older children but usually must be adapted in younger children. Traumatic procedures should always be performed last. These will most likely upset the child and inhibit cooperation. The nurse should introduce the equipment slowly. The child can inspect the equipment, but demonstrations are usually too complex for toddlers.

Which is most likely to encourage parents to talk about their feelings related to their child's illness? a. Be sympathetic. b. Use direct questions. c. Use open-ended questions. d. Avoid periods of silence.

c. Use open-ended questions. Closed-ended questions should be avoided when attempting to elicit parents' feelings. Open- ended questions require the parent to respond with more than a brief answer. Sympathy is having feelings or emotions in common with another person rather than understanding those feelings (empathy). Sympathy is not therapeutic in helping the relationship. Direct questions may obtain limited information. In addition, the parent may consider them threatening. Silence can be an effective interviewing tool. It allows sharing of feelings in which two or more people absorb the emotion in depth. Silence permits the interviewee to sort out thoughts and feelings and search for responses to questions.

A mother brings 6-month-old Eric to the clinic for a well-baby checkup. She comments, "I want to go back to work, but I don't want Eric to suffer because I'll have less time with him." The nurse's most appropriate answer would be which statement? a. "I'm sure he'll be fine if you get a good babysitter." b. "You will need to stay home until Eric starts school." c. "You should go back to work so Eric will get used to being with others." d. "Let's talk about the child care options that will be best for Eric."

d. "Let's talk about the child care options that will be best for Eric." Let's talk about the child care options that will be best for Eric is an open-ended statement that will assist the mother in exploring her concerns about what is best for both her and Eric. I'm sure he'll be fine if you get a good babysitter, You will need to stay home until Eric starts school, and You should go back to work so Eric will get used to being with others are directive statements. They do not address the effect of her working on Eric.

The parents of a newborn say that their toddler "hates the baby; he suggested that we put him in the trash can so the trash truck could take him away." Which is the nurse's best reply? a. "Let's see if we can figure out why he hates the new baby." b. "That's a strong statement to come from such a small boy." c. "Let's refer him to counseling to work this hatred out. It's not a normal response." d. "That is a normal response to the birth of a sibling. Let's look at ways to deal with this."

d. "That is a normal response to the birth of a sibling. Let's look at ways to deal with this." The arrival of a new infant represents a crisis for even the best-prepared toddler. Toddlers have their entire schedule and routines disrupted because of the new family member. The nurse should work with parents on ways to involve the toddler in the newborn's care and to help focus attention on the toddler. The toddler does not hate the infant. This is an expected response to the changes in routines and attention that affect the toddler. The toddler can be provided with a doll to tend to the doll's needs at the same time the parent is performing similar care for the newborn.

At what age should the nurse expect the anterior fontanel to close? a. 2 months b. 2 to 4 months c. 6 to 8 months d. 12 to 18 months

d. 12 to 18 months The anterior fontanel normally closes between ages 12 and 18 months. Two to 8 months is too early. The expected closure of the anterior fontanel occurs between ages 12 and 18 months; if it closes between ages 2 and 8 months, the child should be referred for further evaluation.

An infant who weighs 7 pounds at birth would be expected to weigh how many pounds at age 1 year? a. 14 b. 16 c. 18 d. 21

d. 21 In general, birth weight triples by the end of the first year of life. For an infant who was 7 pounds at birth, 21 pounds would be the anticipated weight at the first birthday; 14, 16, or 18 pounds is below what would be expected for an infant with a birth weight of 7 pounds.

At what age should the nurse expect a child to give both first and last names when asked? a. 15 months b. 18 months c. 24 months d. 30 months

d. 30 months At 30 months, the child is able to give both first and last names and refer to self with an appropriate pronoun. At 15 and 18 months, the child is too young to give his or her own name. At 24 months, the child is able to give first name and refer to self by that name.

The psychosocial developmental tasks of toddlerhood include which characteristic? a. Development of a conscience b. Recognition of sex differences c. Ability to get along with age-mates d. Ability to delay gratification

d. Ability to delay gratification If the need for basic trust has been satisfied, then toddlers can give up dependence for control, independence, and autonomy. One of the tasks that the toddler is concerned with is the ability to delay gratification. Development of a conscience occurs during the preschool years. The recognition of sex differences occurs during the preschool years. The ability to get along with age-mates develops during the preschool and school-age years.

The parents of a 3-month-old infant report that their infant sleeps supine (face up) but is often prone (face down) while awake. What knowledge should the nurse's response should be based? a. Unacceptable because of the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) b. Unacceptable because it does not encourage achievement of developmental milestones c. Acceptable to encourage fine motor development d. Acceptable to encourage head control and turning over

d. Acceptable to encourage head control and turning over These parents are implementing the guidelines to reduce the risk of SIDS. Infants should sleep on their backs and then be placed on their abdomens when awake to enhance development of milestones such as head control. The face- down position while awake and on the back for sleep are acceptable because they reduce risk of SIDS and allow achievement of developmental milestones. These position changes encourage gross motor, not fine motor, development.

A 13-year-old girl asks the nurse how much taller she will get. She has been growing about 2 inches per year but grew 4 inches this past year. Menarche recently occurred. The nurse should base her response on which statement? a. Growth cannot be predicted. b. Pubertal growth spurt lasts about 1 year. c. Mature height is achieved when menarche occurs. d. Approximately 95% of mature height is achieved when menarche occurs.

d. Approximately 95% of mature height is achieved when menarche occurs. At the time of the beginning of menstruation or the skeletal age of 13 years, most girls have grown to about 95% of their adult height. They may have some additional growth (5%) until the epiphyseal plates are closed. Although growth cannot be definitively predicted, on average, 95% of adult height has been reached with the onset of menstruation. Pubertal growth spurt lasts about 1 year does not address the girl's question. Young women usually will grow approximately 5% more after the onset of menstruation.

The nurse is having difficulty communicating with a hospitalized 6-year-old child. What technique might be most helpful? a. Suggest that the child keep a diary. b. Suggest that the parent read fairy tales to the child. c. Ask the parent if the child is always uncommunicative. d. Ask the child to draw a picture.

d. Ask the child to draw a picture. Drawing is one of the most valuable forms of communication. Children's drawings tell a great deal about them because they are projections of the child's inner self. It would be difficult for a 6-year-old child who is most likely learning to read to keep a diary. Parents reading fairy tales to the child is a passive activity involving the parent and child. It would not facilitate communication with the nurse. The child is in a stressful situation and is probably uncomfort- able with strangers.

A young boy is found squirting lighter fluid into his mouth. His father calls the emergency department. The nurse taking the call should know that the primary danger is which result? a. Hepatic dysfunction b. Dehydration secondary to vomiting c. Esophageal stricture and shock d. Bronchitis and chemical pneumonia

d. Bronchitis and chemical pneumonia Lighter fluid is a hydrocarbon. The immediate danger is aspiration. Acetaminophen overdose, not hydrocarbons, causes hepatic dysfunction. Dehydration is not the primary danger. Esophageal stricture is a late or chronic issue of hydrocarbon ingestion.

The nurse recommends to parents that peanuts are not a good snack food for toddlers. What is the nurse's rationale for this action? a. Low in nutritive value b. High in sodium c. Cannot be entirely digested d. Can be easily aspirated

d. Can be easily aspirated Foreign-body aspiration is common during the second year of life. Although they chew well, this age child may have difficulty with large pieces of food, such as meat and whole hot dogs, and with hard foods, such as nuts or dried beans. Peanuts have many beneficial nutrients, but should be avoided because of the risk of aspiration in this age group. The sodium level may be a concern, but the risk of aspiration is more important. Many foods pass through the gastrointestinal tract incompletely undigested. This is not necessarily detrimental to the child.

A nurse is planning play activities for school-age children. Which type of a play activity should the nurse plan? a. Solitary b. Parallel c. Associative d. Cooperative

d. Cooperative School-age children engage in cooperative play where it is organized and interactive. Playing a game is a good example of cooperative play. Solitary play is appropriate for infants, parallel play is an activity appropriate for toddlers, and associative play is an activity appropriate for preschool-age children.

A nurse is selecting a family theory to assess a patient's family dynamics. Which family theory best describes a series of tasks for the family throughout its life span? a. Interactional theory b. Developmental systems theory c. Structural-functional theory d. Duvall's developmental theory

d. Duvall's developmental theory Duvall's developmental theory describes eight developmental tasks of the family throughout its life span. Interactional theory and structural-functional theory are not family theories. Developmental systems theory is an outgrowth of Duvall's theory. The family is described as a small group, a semiclosed system of personalities that interact with the larger cultural system. Changes do not occur in one part of the family without changes in others.

Austin, age 6 months, has six teeth. How should the nurse interpret the finding? a. Normal tooth eruption b. Delayed tooth eruption c. Unusual and dangerous d. Earlier-than-normal tooth eruption

d. Earlier-than-normal tooth eruption Six months is earlier than expected. Most infants at age 6 months have two teeth. Although unusual, it is not dangerous.

The nurse suspects that a child has ingested some type of poison. Which clinical manifestation would be most suggestive that the poison was a corrosive product? a. Tinnitus b. Disorientation c. Stupor, lethargy, coma d. Edema of lips, tongue, pharynx

d. Edema of lips, tongue, pharynx Edema of lips, tongue, and pharynx indicates a corrosive ingestion. Tinnitus is indicative of aspirin ingestion. Corrosives do not act on the central nervous system (CNS).

The parents of a 12-month-old child ask the nurse whether the child can eat hot dogs. The nurse's reply should be based on which statement? a. Child is too young to digest hot dogs. b. Child is too young to eat hot dogs safely. c. Hot dogs must be sliced into sections to prevent aspiration. d. Hot dogs must be cut into small, irregular pieces to prevent aspiration.

d. Hot dogs must be cut into small, irregular pieces to prevent aspiration. Hot dogs are of a consistency, diameter, and round shape that may cause complete obstruction of the child's airway. If given to young children, the hot dog should be cut into small irregular pieces rather than served whole or in slices. The child's digestive system is mature enough to digest hot dogs. To eat the hot dog safely, the child should be sitting down, and the hot dog should be appropriately cut.

When palpating the child's cervical lymph nodes, the nurse notes that they are tender, enlarged, and warm. What is the best explanation for this? a. Some form of cancer b. Local scalp infection common in children c. Infection or inflammation distal to the site d. Infection or inflammation close to the site

d. Infection or inflammation close to the site Small nontender nodes are normal. Tender, enlarged, and warm lymph nodes may indicate infection or inflammation close to their location. Tender lymph nodes are not usually indicative of cancer. A scalp infection would usually not cause inflamed lymph nodes. The lymph nodes close to the site of inflammation or infection would be inflamed.

A parent asks the nurse about negativism in toddlers. Which is the most appropriate recommendation? a. Punish the child. b. Provide more attention. c. Ask child not always to say "no." d. Reduce the opportunities for a "no" answer.

d. Reduce the opportunities for a "no" answer. The nurse should suggest to the parent that questions be phrased with realistic choices rather than yes or no answers. This provides the toddler with a sense of control and reduces the opportunity for negativism. Negativism is not an indication of stubbornness or insolence and should not be punished. The negativism is not a function of attention; the child is testing limits to gain an understanding of the world. The toddler is too young to be asked to not always say "no."

A father tells the nurse that his daughter wants the same plate and cup used at every meal, even if they go to a restaurant. What should the nurse explain to the father? a. A sign the child is spoiled b. A way to exert unhealthy control c. Regression, common at this age d. Ritualism, common at this age

d. Ritualism, common at this age The child is exhibiting the ritualism that is characteristic at this age. Ritualism is the need to maintain sameness and reliability. It provides a sense of comfort to the toddler. It will dictate certain principles in feeding practices, including rejecting a favorite food because it is served in a different container. Ritualism is not indicative of a child who has unreasonable expectations, but rather normal development. Toddlers use ritualistic behaviors to maintain necessary structure in their lives. This is not regression, which is a retreat from a present pattern of functioning.

A nurse observes a toddler playing with sand and water. How should the nurse document this type of play? a. Skill b. Dramatic c. Social-affective d. Sense-pleasure

d. Sense-pleasure The toddler playing with sand and water is engaging in sense-pleasure play. This is character- ized by nonsocial situations in which the child is stimulated by objects in the environment. Infants engage in skill play when they persistently demonstrate and exercise newly acquired abilities. Dramatic play is the predominant form of play in the preschool period. Children pretend and fantasize. Social-affective play is one of the first types of play in which infants engage. The infant responds to interactions with people.

Which following function of play is a major component of play at all ages? a. Creativity b. Socialization c. Intellectual development d. Sensorimotor activity

d. Sensorimotor activity Sensorimotor activity is a major component of play at all ages. Active play is essential for muscle development and allows the release of surplus energy. Through sensorimotor play, children explore their physical world by using tactile, auditory, visual, and kinesthetic stimulation. Creativity, socialization, and intellectual development are each functions of play that are major components at different ages.

The nurse is teaching parents of toddlers about animal safety. Which should be included in the teaching session? a. Petting dogs in the neighborhood should be encouraged to prevent fear of dogs. b. The toddler is safe to approach an animal if the animal is chained. c. It is permissible for your toddler to feed treats to a dog. d. Teach your toddler not to disturb an animal that is eating.

d. Teach your toddler not to disturb an animal that is eating. Parents should be taught that toddlers should not disturb an animal that is eating, sleeping, or caring for young puppies or kittens. The child should avoid all strange animals and not be encouraged to pet dogs in the neighborhood. The child should never approach a strange dog that is confined or restrained. The inexperienced child should not feed a dog (if the child pulls back when the animal moves to take the food, this can frighten and startle the animal).

A nurse is planning care for a 17-month-old child. According to Piaget, which stage should the nurse expect the child to be in cognitively? a. Trust b. Preoperational c. Secondary circular reaction d. Tertiary circular reaction

d. Tertiary circular reaction The 17-month-old child is in the fifth stage of the sensorimotor phase, tertiary circular reactions. The child uses active experimentation to achieve previously unattainable goals. Trust is Erikson's first stage. Preoperational is the stage of cognitive development usually present in older toddlers and preschoolers. Secondary circular reactions last from about ages 4 to 8 months.

Parents tell the nurse that their 1-year-old son often sleeps with them. They seem unconcerned about this. The nurse's response should be based on which statement? a. Children should not sleep with their parents. b. Separation from parents should be completed by this age. c. Daytime attention should be increased. d. This is a common and accepted practice, especially in some cultural groups.

d. This is a common and accepted practice, especially in some cultural groups. Co-sleeping, or sharing the family bed, in which the parents allow the children to sleep with them, is a common and accepted practice in many cultures. Parents should evaluate the options available and avoid conditions that place the infant at risk. Population-based studies are currently under way; no evidence at this time supports or condemns the practice for safety reasons. Co-sleeping is a cultural practice. One year is the age at which children are just beginning to individuate. Increased daytime activity may help decrease sleep problems in general, but co- sleeping is a culturally determined phenomenon.

The parents of a 9-month-old infant tell the nurse that they have noticed foods such as peas and corn are not completely digested and can be seen in their infant's stools. The nurse's explanation of this is based on which statement? a. Child should not be given fibrous foods until digestive tract matures at age 4 years. b. Child should not be given any solid foods until this digestive problem is resolved. c. This is abnormal and requires further investigation d. This is normal because of the immaturity of digestive processes at this age.

d. This is normal because of the immaturity of digestive processes at this age. The immaturity of the digestive tract is evident in the appearance of the stools. Solid foods are passed incompletely broken down in the feces. An excess quantity of fiber predisposes the child to large, bulky stools. This is normal for the child and is a normal part of the maturational process; no further investigation is necessary.

Which factor is most important in predisposing toddlers to frequent infections? a. Respirations are abdominal. b. Pulse and respiratory rates are slower than those in infancy. c. Defense mechanisms are less efficient than those during infancy. d. Toddlers have a short, straight internal ear canal and large lymph tissue.

d. Toddlers have a short, straight internal ear canal and large lymph tissue. Toddlers continue to have the short, straight internal ear canal of infants. The lymphoid tissue of the tonsils and adenoids continues to be relatively large. These two anatomic conditions combine to predispose the toddler to frequent infections. The abdominal respirations and lowered pulse and respiratory rate of toddlers do not affect their susceptibility to infection. The defense mechanisms are more efficient compared with those of infancy.

Which following parameters correlates best with measurements of the body's total protein stores? a. Height b. Weight c. Skinfold thickness d. Upper arm circumference

d. Upper arm circumference Upper arm circumference is correlated with measurements of total muscle mass. Muscle serves as the body's major protein reserve and is considered an index of the body's protein stores. Height is reflective of past nutritional status. Weight is indicative of current nutritional status. Skinfold thickness is a measurement of the body's fat content.

Which characteristic best describes the gross motor skills of a 24- month-old child? a. Skips and can hop in place on one foot b. Rides tricycle and broad jumps c. Jumps with both feet and stands on one foot momentarily d. Walks up and down stairs and runs with a wide stance

d. Walks up and down stairs and runs with a wide stance The 24-month-old child can go up and down stairs alone with two feet on each step and runs with a wide stance. Skipping and hopping on one foot are achieved by 4-year-old children. Jumping with both feet and standing on one foot momentarily are achieved by 30-month-old children. Tricycle riding and broad jumping are achieved at age 3.

A nurse is conducting parenting classes for parents of children ranging in ages 2 to 7 years. The parents understand the term egocentrism when they indicate it means: a. selfishness. b. self-centeredness. c. preferring to play alone. d. unable to put self in another's place.

d. unable to put self in another's place. According to Piaget, children ages 2 to 7 years are in the preoperational stage of development. Children interpret objects and events not in terms of their general properties but in terms of their relationships or their use to them. This egocentrism does not allow children of this age to put themselves in another's place. Selfishness, self-centeredness, and preferring to play alone do not describe the concept of egocentricity.