A nurse is teaching about growth and development to a parent of a 12-year-old child. The nurse should instruct the parent to expect the child to exhibit which of the following characteristics during early adolescence?

Choice A reason: Using a bulb syringe to suction the nares is a common practice for clearing nasal passages in infants, but it is not the primary concern for an infant with a tracheostomy, which requires specific care to maintain airway patency.

Choice B reason: Providing antibiotic therapy may be necessary if there is an infection, but it is not a standard care action for a tracheostomy without evidence of infection.

Choice C reason: Administering intermittent suction via the tracheostomy is essential to clear secretions and maintain airway patency, which is the greatest risk for an infant with a tracheostomy.

Choice D reason: Placing an infant in a prone position to sleep is not recommended due to the increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Infants should be placed on their backs to sleep.

Choice A reason: Explaining procedures in detail to the child can be overwhelming and may not be effective, as children with autism spectrum disorder often have difficulty processing too much verbal information at once.

Choice B reason: Staying with the child for long periods of time is not specific to the care of a child with autism spectrum disorder and does not address their unique needs related to transitions or sensory processing.

Choice C reason: Introducing the child to new situations slowly is important because children with autism spectrum disorder may have difficulty with changes in routine or environment. Gradual introduction can help them adjust and reduce anxiety.

Choice D reason: Giving the child three options when making choices can be helpful, but it is not as critical as introducing new situations slowly. Too many choices can sometimes be overwhelming for children with autism spectrum disorder.