Pediatric Nursing: Growth and Development Flashcards

A nurse assesses a 6-month-old infant. Which gross motor milestone is expected at this age?

Answer: Rolling from back to front

By 6 months an infant can typically roll from back to front, while sitting unsupported emerges around 7-8 months.

According to Erikson, what is the primary psychosocial task of infancy (birth to 1 year)?

Answer: Trust vs. mistrust

Erikson identifies trust vs. mistrust as the central conflict of the first year, built through consistent caregiving.

A 2-year-old says about 50 words and combines two words into phrases. The nurse interprets this as:

Answer: Normal expressive language development

A 50-word vocabulary with two-word phrases is the expected language ability for a 2-year-old.

When does an infant typically develop object permanence, understanding that hidden objects still exist?

Answer: Around 9 months

Object permanence develops around 8-9 months, which is why peek-a-boo becomes engaging and separation anxiety appears.

A nurse teaches parents about a toddler's nutrition. Which statement reflects 'physiologic anorexia' of the toddler period?

Answer: Decreased appetite is normal as growth slows

Growth slows after infancy, so toddlers experience a normal decrease in appetite known as physiologic anorexia.

Which behavior demonstrates the parallel play characteristic of toddlers?

Answer: A toddler playing alone beside another toddler

Parallel play means toddlers play alongside but not with one another, typical of this developmental stage.

A nurse evaluates head circumference growth. By what age does the anterior fontanel normally close?

Answer: 12-18 months

The anterior fontanel typically closes between 12 and 18 months of age.