A nurse is preparing to measure an infant’s vital signs.
The nurse should use which of the following sites to assess a heart rate?

The correct answer is D. Separates easily from primary caregiver for short periods of time.

Choice A rationale

Explaining the difference between right and wrong is a developmental task expected of older children, typically preschoolers or early school-aged children. Toddlers are still developing their understanding of rules and consequences.

Choice B rationale

Printing letters and numbers is a skill expected of preschoolers or early school-aged children. Toddlers are still developing fine motor skills and are not yet capable of printing letters and numbers.

Choice C rationale

Cooperating in doing simple chores is a developmental task that can be expected of toddlers. However, it is not as specific or significant as the ability to separate easily from the primary caregiver for short periods of time, which is a key developmental milestone for toddlers.

Choice D rationale

Separating easily from the primary caregiver for short periods of time is an important developmental milestone for toddlers. It indicates that the child is developing a sense of independence and trust in their environment, which is crucial for their social and emotional development.

The correct answer is Choice D.

Choice A rationale

Encouraging progressive activity is generally beneficial for children with various health conditions, but it is not the primary focus for a child with polycythemia caused by a congenital heart disorder. The main concern is managing the increased blood viscosity and preventing complications related to it.

Choice B rationale

Expecting the skin to turn yellow is not a typical symptom of polycythemia. Jaundice is more commonly associated with liver conditions or hemolytic diseases, not polycythemia caused by congenital heart disorders.

Choice C rationale

Preparing for seizures is not directly related to polycythemia. Seizures are more commonly associated with neurological conditions or severe electrolyte imbalances, not polycythemia.

Choice D rationale

Preventing dehydration is crucial for children with polycythemia because dehydration can increase blood viscosity, leading to a higher risk of thrombotic events. Ensuring adequate hydration helps maintain proper blood flow and reduces the risk of complications.