A nurse is assessing the psychosocial development of a toddler.
The nurse should recognize that this stage is characterized by which of the following?

The correct answer is D. Checking pedal pulses frequently.

Choice A rationale

Encouraging the child to talk about the procedure is important for emotional support, but it is not the most critical assessment immediately after a cardiac catheterization. The priority is to monitor for potential complications.

Choice B rationale

Confirming to the child that the procedure has been completed is important for reassurance, but it is not the most critical assessment. The priority is to monitor for potential complications.

Choice C rationale

Gradually allowing the child to adapt to the lighted surroundings is not relevant to the immediate post-procedure care. The priority is to monitor for potential complications.

Choice D rationale

Checking pedal pulses frequently is the most important assessment after a cardiac catheterization via the femoral artery. It helps to ensure that there is adequate blood flow to the lower extremities and to detect any signs of arterial obstruction or complications at the catheter insertion site.

The correct answer is Choice A.

Choice A rationale

Slightly yellow sclera, or jaundice, is a common finding in children with sickle cell anemia. The breakdown of sickled red blood cells leads to increased bilirubin levels in the blood, which can cause jaundice. This yellowing is often most noticeable in the sclera of the eyes. Jaundice is a result of hemolysis, a hallmark of sickle cell anemia, where red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be produced.

Choice B rationale

Depigmented areas on the abdomen are not typically associated with sickle cell anemia. Sickle cell anemia primarily affects the blood and organs, leading to complications such as pain crises, anemia, and organ damage. Skin changes like depigmentation are not characteristic of this condition and may indicate other underlying issues.

Choice C rationale

Enlarged mandibular growth is not a common finding in sickle cell anemia. While children with sickle cell anemia may experience growth delays and skeletal abnormalities due to chronic anemia and bone marrow hyperactivity, mandibular enlargement is not a typical feature.

Skeletal changes in sickle cell anemia are more likely to involve long bones and vertebrae.

Choice D rationale

Increased growth of long bones is not a characteristic finding in sickle cell anemia. In fact, children with sickle cell anemia may experience growth delays and shorter stature due to chronic anemia and the body’s increased demand for red blood cell production. The condition can lead to skeletal abnormalities, but these typically involve bone infarctions and deformities rather than increased growth.