A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a school-age child who was admitted for suspected physical maltreatment. Which of the following findings in the child's medical history should the nurse identify as a potential risk factor for physical maltreatment?

Choice A rationale:
"I should start by feeding my baby 3 tablespoons of solid food." At 6 months of age, infants are typically just beginning to transition to solid foods. Starting with 3 tablespoons of solid food might be overwhelming and inappropriate for the infant's digestive system. Introducing small amounts and gradually increasing the volume allows the infant to adapt to the new textures and flavors.
Choice B rationale:
"I should limit my baby to 8 ounces of juice per day." Juice consumption should be limited for infants. Juice offers little nutritional value and can contribute to excessive calorie intake, leading to potential weight gain and tooth decay. At 6 months, the primary source of nutrition should still be breast milk or formula, and the introduction of solid foods is meant to complement, not replace these sources.
Choice C rationale:
"I should introduce a new solid food to my baby every five to seven days." This statement indicates an understanding of the recommended approach for introducing solid foods to an infant. Introducing a new food every five to seven days allows the parent to monitor for any potential allergic reactions or sensitivities. This gradual approach helps identify specific foods that the infant may not tolerate well.
Choice D rationale:
"I should sweeten my baby's food with a teaspoon of honey." This statement is incorrect and potentially dangerous. Honey should not be given to infants under 12 months of age due to the risk of infant botulism, a serious and potentially fatal illness. Honey can contain spores of Clostridium botulinum bacteria, which can multiply and produce toxins in an infant's immature digestive system. It's important to avoid honey until the child is older to ensure their safety.

Choice A rationale:
Edema. Edema, the accumulation of fluid in the tissues, is not the primary indicator of compartment syndrome. While edema can occur due to various reasons, it's not specific to compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome primarily involves increased pressure within a closed space (muscle compartment), which can compromise blood circulation and nerve function.
Choice B rationale:
Mottling. Mottling refers to a patchy, bluish discoloration of the skin that occurs due to poor blood circulation and is often seen in critically ill patients. While it might indicate circulatory issues, it's not a direct sign of compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome is more closely associated with symptoms such as severe pain, numbness, and decreased or absent pulses.
Choice C rationale:
Urticaria. Urticaria, also known as hives, is a skin rash characterized by raised, itchy, and red or white welts. It is typically caused by an allergic reaction or other factors such as medications. Urticaria is unrelated to compartment syndrome, which involves the compression of nerves and blood vessels within a closed anatomical compartment, leading to ischemia and potential tissue damage.
Choice D rationale:
Pulselessness. Pulselessness is a critical sign that the nurse should monitor when conducting a circulatory check for compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome occurs when there is increased pressure within a confined space (muscle compartment), leading to compromised blood flow and oxygen delivery to the tissues. The lack of a palpable pulse in the affected area suggests that blood flow is severely compromised. This is a late sign of compartment syndrome and requires immediate intervention to prevent tissue necrosis and long-term complications.