A nurse in a clinic is assessing a 9-month-old infant.
Which of the following findings requires further intervention?

The correct answer is D. Checking pedal pulses frequently.

Choice A rationale

Encouraging the child to talk about the procedure is important for emotional support, but it is not the most critical assessment immediately after a cardiac catheterization. The priority is to monitor for potential complications.

Choice B rationale

Confirming to the child that the procedure has been completed is important for reassurance, but it is not the most critical assessment. The priority is to monitor for potential complications.

Choice C rationale

Gradually allowing the child to adapt to the lighted surroundings is not relevant to the immediate post-procedure care. The priority is to monitor for potential complications.

Choice D rationale

Checking pedal pulses frequently is the most important assessment after a cardiac catheterization via the femoral artery. It helps to ensure that there is adequate blood flow to the lower extremities and to detect any signs of arterial obstruction or complications at the catheter insertion site.

A. Trust vs. mistrust: This stage occurs from birth to 18 months. Infants learn to trust their caregivers to meet their needs. If caregivers are consistent and reliable, infants develop a sense of trust.
B. Autonomy vs. shame and doubt: This stage occurs from 18 months to 3 years. Toddlers learn to do things independently. Success leads to autonomy, while failure results in feelings of shame and doubt.
C. Initiative vs. guilt: This stage occurs from 3 to 5 years. Children begin to assert control and power over their environment. Success leads to a sense of initiative, while failure results in guilt.
D. Industry vs. inferiority: This stage occurs from 6 to 11 years. Children learn to cope with new social and academic demands. Success leads to a sense of competence, while failure results in feelings of inferiority.

E. Identity vs. role confusion: This stage occurs from 12 to 18 years. Adolescents explore their independence and develop a sense of self. Success leads to a strong identity, while failure results in role confusion.