A nurse is caring for a 10-month-old infant who is in a cast for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH).
Which of the following strategies should the nurse implement to promote the infant's growth and development?
Allow the infant to stand in the crib.
Provide a small electronic toy.
Tie colorful latex balloons to the side of the crib.
Change the infant's diaper as soon as soiling occurs.
None
None
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is Choice A.
Choice A rationale: Encouraging the infant to stand in the crib while in a cast for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) supports gross motor development and maintains neuromuscular stimulation. Standing promotes proprioceptive input, strengthens postural muscles, and supports bone mineralization through weight-bearing. Infants in hip spica casts or orthotic devices can safely stand with supervision, preserving developmental milestones. Normal serum calcium ranges from 8.5 to 10.5 mg/dL, and mechanical loading enhances osteoblastic activity and skeletal growth.
Choice B rationale: While electronic toys offer sensory stimulation, they do not adequately support gross motor development in infants with DDH. At 10 months, infants require opportunities for vertical positioning and weight-bearing to stimulate vestibular and musculoskeletal systems. Passive play with electronic toys may delay motor milestones such as cruising and standing. Developmental progress depends on integrated sensory-motor experiences, and reliance on sedentary toys may limit engagement of core and lower limb musculature.
Choice C rationale: Latex balloons pose a significant safety hazard due to the risk of aspiration and suffocation. When burst, latex fragments can occlude the airway, especially in infants with underdeveloped protective reflexes. The tracheal diameter in infants averages 4 to 5 mm, making obstruction by balloon fragments potentially fatal. Additionally, latex exposure may trigger allergic reactions, particularly in atopic individuals. The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly advises against latex balloon use in children under 8 years.
Choice D rationale: Prompt diaper changes are essential for skin integrity, especially under a cast where moisture retention can lead to maceration and infection. However, this action does not directly promote growth and development. It is a hygiene measure that prevents irritant contact dermatitis and secondary infections such as Candida albicans. Normal skin pH ranges from 4.5 to 5.5, and prolonged exposure to urine and feces elevates pH, disrupting the acid mantle. While necessary, it lacks developmental stimulation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A bulging fontanel is a manifestation associated with a CNS infection in an 11- month-old infant.
A bulging fontanel can be a sign of increased intracranial pressure, which can
occur with meningitis or encephalitis, both of which are types of CNS infections.
Choice A is incorrect because oliguria, or decreased urine output, is not typically associated with a CNS infection.
Choice B is incorrect because jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and eyes, is not typically associated with a CNS infection.
Choice D is incorrect because a negative Brudzinski sign would indicate that there is no neck stiffness, which would be an unlikely finding in a CNS infection.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
An epiphyseal fracture is a fracture that occurs in the epiphyseal plate, which is the layer of cartilage between the end of a long bone and the start of the bone shaft.
This type of fracture is most common in children and adolescents, as their bones are still growing and the epiphyseal plate is not yet fused to the bone shaft.
Because this is where new bone develops, injuries to this area can cause the plate to close prematurely, jeopardizing bone growth.
Choice B, “Bone marrow can be lost through the fracture,” is incorrect because
bone marrow is not lost through an epiphyseal fracture.
Choice C, “The younger the child the longer the healing process will take,” is incorrect because younger children generally heal faster than older children or adults.
Choice D, “The blood supply to the bone is disrupted,” is incorrect because an
epiphyseal fracture does not necessarily disrupt the blood supply to the bone.
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