Which of the following assessment findings would lead the nurse to suspect Down syndrome in an infant?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pediatric nursing, recognizing clinical manifestations associated with genetic conditions like Down syndrome is crucial for early detection and intervention. The correct answer is B) Transverse palmar crease. Infants with Down syndrome often present with this physical characteristic, known as the "simian crease," which is a single crease across the palm instead of the typical three creases. This finding is a significant indicator of Down syndrome and should prompt further evaluation and genetic testing. Option A) Small tongue is not typically associated with Down syndrome. However, infants with Down syndrome may have a protruding tongue due to hypotonia, not a small one. Option C) Large nose is a vague characteristic and not specific to Down syndrome. While some individuals with Down syndrome may have a slightly larger nose, it is not a definitive diagnostic feature. Option D) Restricted joint movement is not a common finding in infants with Down syndrome. Instead, joint laxity and hyperflexibility are more commonly observed due to ligamentous laxity associated with the condition. Educationally, understanding these subtle physical cues can aid nurses in identifying potential genetic conditions early, allowing for timely interventions and support for the infant and their family. It is essential for nurses to be familiar with a wide range of assessment findings associated with various conditions to provide holistic and individualized care to pediatric patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) Caput succedaneum. In a neonate, a swelling on the scalp that crosses the suture line is most likely to be a caput succedaneum. This condition is characterized by localized soft tissue edema that is present over the presenting part of the fetus at birth. It usually resolves on its own without intervention. A) Cephalic hematoma is a collection of blood between the skull and periosteum. It does not cross suture lines and is typically caused by trauma during delivery. C) Hemorrhagic edema refers to localized swelling with blood accumulation. This term is not commonly used in neonatal care for this specific presentation. D) Perinatal caput is not a recognized term in neonatal care. It does not describe the specific condition of swelling on the scalp that crosses the suture line. Educational context: Understanding the differences between these terms is crucial for nurses caring for neonates. Correctly identifying and documenting such findings can aid in appropriate treatment and monitoring of neonatal conditions. Proper documentation ensures clear communication among the healthcare team and accurate medical records for future reference.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In discussing a seven-month-old infant's motor skill development, it is crucial for nurses to have a strong understanding of typical developmental milestones. At seven months, infants are typically able to sit alone using their hands for support, making option D the correct answer. This milestone is known as the "tripod sit" where infants can balance themselves briefly while using their hands for additional support. Option A, walking with support, is not developmentally appropriate for a seven-month-old infant as walking typically begins around 12-15 months. Option B, eating with a spoon, involves more advanced fine motor skills that infants typically develop around 12-18 months. Option C, standing while holding onto furniture, known as cruising, is a skill that emerges around 9-12 months. Understanding these milestones is crucial for nurses working with pediatric patients as it allows them to assess development appropriately, provide anticipatory guidance to parents, and identify potential developmental delays early on. By comprehensively understanding infant motor skill development, nurses can offer holistic care to promote optimal growth and development in pediatric patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Pulling toys, which is typical for an 18-month-old baby. At this age, children are developing their fine and gross motor skills. Pulling toys helps in improving their muscle strength and coordination. It also fosters their curiosity and exploration abilities. Option A) Copying a circle involves more advanced fine motor skills and is typically seen in older children, around 3-4 years old. Option C) Playing with other children is a social interaction skill that starts developing more prominently after 2 years of age. Option D) Building a tower of eight blocks requires more refined hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness, skills that are usually acquired around 2-3 years of age. Educationally, understanding age-appropriate developmental milestones is crucial for healthcare providers, especially nurses working with pediatric patients. Recognizing what tasks are typical for different age groups guides the assessment of a child's growth and development, aiding in early identification of any potential delays or issues that may require further evaluation or intervention. This knowledge also informs the planning and implementation of appropriate nursing interventions to support the child's overall well-being and development.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The most appropriate response would be option D: "A dental check-up is a good idea, even if no noticeable problems are present." This response is correct because regular dental check-ups are essential for monitoring oral health, even if the child's teeth appear healthy. It promotes preventive care and early detection of any potential issues. Option A is incorrect because it dismisses the importance of regular dental check-ups regardless of daily oral care practices. Option B is incorrect as it implies a missed opportunity for dental appointments, which can discourage the parent from seeking care now. Option C is incorrect as it sets a delayed timeline for dental visits based on school entry rather than emphasizing the importance of early dental care. In an educational context, it is vital for nurses to educate parents about the significance of routine dental visits for children's overall health. By explaining the rationale behind regular dental check-ups, nurses can empower parents to prioritize preventive dental care for their child from an early age, leading to better oral health outcomes in the long run.