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: Teaching the child about cast care is important, but it is not the first action to take. Education on cast maintenance and activity restrictions will follow after addressing immediate needs.

Choice B reason: Administering pain medication should be the first action taken by the nurse. After a cast application for a fracture, the child is likely experiencing pain, and managing this pain is a priority to ensure comfort and facilitate healing.

Choice C reason: Elevating the child's leg is a subsequent action that can help reduce swelling and discomfort, but it is not the first action to take. Pain management is the priority before positioning.

Choice D reason: Petaling the edges of the cast, which involves placing soft material around the rough edges to prevent skin irritation, is important but not the first action. The initial focus should be on pain relief.