The nurse is assessing development in a 9-month-old infant.
What would the nurse expect to observe?

Choice A rationale:

Push-pull toys are suitable for a 3-year-old because they promote physical activity and coordination. These toys help children develop their motor skills and provide a fun way for them to engage with their environment. Push-pull toys are age-appropriate and safe for toddlers.

Choice B rationale:

A large construction set may have small parts that could be a choking hazard for a 3-year-old. It's essential to select toys that do not pose such risks and are developmentally appropriate. Therefore, this choice is not the most appropriate toy for a 3-year-old.

Choice C rationale:

A small pet, such as a goldfish, is not an appropriate toy for a 3-year-old. Pets are living creatures that require care and attention. Introducing a pet to a young child should be a well-considered decision made by the family and not seen as a toy choice.

Choice D rationale:

A board game is typically too complex for a 3-year-old to fully enjoy and understand. Board games often require following rules, taking turns, and using fine motor skills that may not be well-developed in a child of this age. Therefore, it is not the most appropriate choice.

Choice A rationale:

Introducing solid foods to infants is an essential step in their development. The nurse should advise a parent to introduce each new food 4 to 7 days apart. This recommendation is based on the principles of food introduction and infant nutrition. By introducing new foods with this time gap, parents can monitor for any adverse reactions or allergies that may occur. It allows for the identification of potential food sensitivities, making it easier to determine the cause if the child develops any adverse reactions. This cautious approach ensures the safety and well-being of the child while also helping to establish healthy eating habits from a young age.

Choice B rationale:

Mixing foods together is not recommended when introducing solid foods to infants. This approach can make it challenging to identify the cause of any adverse reactions or allergies. If a parent mixes multiple foods and the child has a negative reaction, it becomes difficult to pinpoint which specific food caused the problem. Therefore, it's best to introduce one food at a time, as advised in choice A, to monitor the child's response effectively.

Choice C rationale:

Eliminating a refused food from the diet is not a suitable approach for introducing solid foods to infants. Refusing a new food is a common response in infants who are still getting used to the taste and texture of solid foods. It's important not to eliminate the food altogether, as it may take several attempts before the child accepts it. Parents should be encouraged to reintroduce the refused food at a later time. The focus should be on gradual exposure and persistence.

Choice D rationale:

Beginning with one tablespoon of food is not a recommended approach. Infants should start with small amounts of solid foods and gradually increase the quantity as they become more accustomed to the new textures and flavors. Starting with a larger portion can overwhelm the child and may lead to refusal or choking. A gradual introduction, as suggested in choice A, is a safer and more appropriate method.