A nurse is assessing the fontanels of an 8-month-old infant. Which of the following findings should the nurse recognize as an expected finding
The anterior fontanel is open.
Both fontanels are the same size.
The posterior fontanel is open.
Both fontanels show moulding
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason
The anterior fontanel is open is the correct answer. An expected finding in an 8-month-old infant is that the anterior fontanel (the soft spot on the top of the baby's head) is open. The fontanelles are spaces between the bones of an infant's skull that allow for the baby's brain to grow and the skull to mould during birth.
The anterior fontanel typically remains open until the baby is around 18 to 24 months old, with the closure process starting sometime after 9 months of age. Therefore, at 8 months of age, it is normal for the anterior fontanel to still be open.
Choice B reason:
Both fontanels are the same size is incorrect. Both fontanels are usually not the same size. The anterior fontanel is larger and diamond-shaped, while the posterior fontanel is smaller and triangular.
Choice C reason:
The posterior fontanel is open is incorrect. The posterior fontanel, located at the back of the baby's head, usually closes earlier than the anterior fontanel. It typically closes within the first few months after birth, so it is not expected to be open at 8 months of age.
Choice D reason
Both fontanels show molding is incorrect. Molding refers to the temporary shaping of the baby's head during birth due to the pressure exerted during the passage through the birth canal. By 8 months of age, the molding typically resolves, and the baby's head should have a more rounded appearance.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A. “Would you like to speak to a spiritual advisor?”.
This statement shows respect for the client’s spirituality and offers support without imposing the nurse’s beliefs or values. Spirituality focuses on the significance and purpose of life and can help clients cope with depression and terminal illness.
Choice B is wrong because it implies that the client needs medication to deal with their feelings, which can be dismissive and insensitive.
Antianxiety medication may be appropriate for some clients, but it should not be the first option.
Choice C is wrong because it assumes that the client is ready to discuss advance directives, which may not be the case.
Advance directives are legal documents that specify the client’s wishes for end-of-life care, such as resuscitation, organ donation, or power of attorney.
The nurse should assess the client’s readiness and understanding before initiating this conversation.
Choice D is wrong because it suggests that the client is close to death and needs hospice care, which can be discouraging and frightening. Hospice care is an interdisciplinary team effort that provides palliative care for clients who have a terminal illness and a life expectancy of less than 6 months.
The nurse should explain the benefits of hospice care and obtain the client’s consent before making a referral.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Arching should not be expected. Arching of the body is not a typical manifestation of bacterial pneumonia. It may be seen in infants with certain conditions such as abdominal pain or neurologic issues, but it is not specific to pneumonia.
Choice B reason:
Drooling should not be expected. Drooling is not a common manifestation of bacterial pneumonia. It may be seen in certain conditions affecting the throat or mouth, but it is not directly related to pneumonia.
Choice C reason:
Fever is the correct answer. Bacterial pneumonia is an infection in the lungs caused by bacteria. When a child has bacterial pneumonia, their body's immune system responds to the infection, leading to inflammation and fever.
Choice D reason:
Steatorrhea should not be expected. Steatorrhea refers to fatty, bulky, and foul-smelling stools and is not associated with bacterial pneumonia. Steatorrhea may be seen in conditions affecting the gastrointestinal system and fat absorption.
Choice E reason:
Tinnitus should not be expected. Tinnitus is the perception of noise or ringing in the ears and is not a typical manifestation of bacterial pneumonia. Tinnitus can be associated with various ear-related conditions or medication side effects, but it is not directly related to pneumonia.
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