A nurse is collecting data from an infant.
Which of the following sites is the most reliable location to check the infant’s pulse?

Choice A rationale

Asking the guardians to leave during the procedure is not recommended. The presence of a familiar person can provide comfort and reduce anxiety for the toddler during a stressful procedure.

Choice B rationale

Performing the procedure with the child in his bed can provide a sense of security and familiarity, which can help reduce anxiety and fear.

Choice C rationale

Using the child’s favorite toy to explain or distract during the procedure can help the child understand what to expect and provide a sense of control.

Choice D rationale

Applying lidocaine and prilocaine (EMLA) Cream to 2-3 potential insertion sites can help numb the area and reduce pain during the procedure.

Choice E rationale

Allowing the child to make one choice regarding the procedure can provide a sense of control and cooperation.

Choice A rationale

While rest is important for a child, suggesting that the child needs to rest does not address the parents’ concern about their child crying when they leave.

Choice B rationale

This is the correct answer. It is normal for an 8-month-old child to show signs of separation anxiety when their parents leave. This is a part of their normal development where they start to understand object permanence - the concept that things and people exist even when they’re out of sight. This can make them upset when their parents leave as they understand their parents are somewhere else, but they don’t know when they’ll return.

Choice C rationale

Notifying the provider about a normal developmental behavior is not necessary. It’s important for parents to understand that this behavior is a normal part of their child’s development.

Choice D rationale

While an overstimulating environment can cause distress in children, in this case, the child is upset because of their parents leaving, not because of the environment.