A nurse is assisting with the care of a 3-month-old infant following a surgical procedure.
Which of the following pain scales should the nurse use to determine the infant’s pain level?

Choice A rationale

It’s not uncommon for infants to eat the same foods prepared for the rest of the family, especially if these foods are healthy and properly prepared. However, it’s important to note that certain foods may pose a choking hazard or may not be suitable for an infant’s digestive system. For example, honey should not be given to children under 1 year of age due to the risk of botulism.

Choice B rationale

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants under 12 months of age should not drink cow’s milk. Cow’s milk lacks the necessary nutrients that infants need for growth and development. It also contains high concentrations of protein and minerals, which can stress an infant’s kidneys and cause other health problems.

Choice C rationale

Drinking from a cup with a cover, also known as a sippy cup, is a normal part of an infant’s development. It helps the child transition from a bottle to a regular cup. However, it’s important to monitor the child’s use of a sippy cup as prolonged use can lead to tooth decay.

Choice D rationale

Giving an infant finger foods like apple slices is a good way to encourage self-feeding and develop fine motor skills. However, the food should be cut into small, manageable pieces to prevent choking.

Choice A rationale

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that children be introduced to foods other than breast milk or infant formula when they are about 6 months old. The first foods to be introduced should be single-ingredient foods that contain no sugar or salt. Among the first foods to be introduced are infant cereals. Iron-fortified cereals are particularly important because iron is a crucial nutrient in the second half of a baby’s first year.

Choice B rationale

While strained fruits are a common food to introduce early on, they are typically not the first food to be introduced. The first food is usually an iron-fortified cereal due to the importance of iron in a baby’s diet.

Choice C rationale

Pureed meats are also a good source of iron and can be introduced early on. However, they are not typically the first food to be introduced.

Choice D rationale

Cooked egg whites are not typically one of the first foods introduced to infants. There is also a risk of allergic reactions with egg whites, so they should be introduced with caution and not as the first food.