A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a parent of a 4-month-old infant during a home visit.

Which of the following statements by the parent indicates an understanding of the teaching?

The correct answer is choice C. Holding the client’s eyes shut for a few seconds.

This is because the eyes of a deceased client do not close naturally and may remain open after death. Holding them shut for a few seconds helps to keep them closed and prevent drying of the corneas.

This also gives a more peaceful appearance to the client’s body for the family visit.

Choice A is wrong because crossing the client’s arms across their chest is not a standard postmortem care procedure. It may also interfere with the placement of identification tags on the wrists.

Choice B is wrong because placing the client in a high-Fowler’s position is not necessary or appropriate for postmortem care. The client should be placed in a supine position with the head of the bed elevated to prevent livor mortis (purple discoloration of the skin) on the face.

Choice D is wrong because removing the client’s dentures from their mouth is not recommended for postmortem care. The dentures should be left in place to maintain the shape of the face and prevent the jaw from dropping.

Normal ranges are not applicable for this question as it does not involve any physiological measurements.

Answer and explanation.

The correct answer is choice A. A nontender, protruding abdomen is a normal finding for a 2year-old toddler. This is due to the immature development of the abdominal muscles and the relatively large size of the liver and kidneys in relation to the rest of the body.

Choice B is wrong because the head circumference should be equal to or less than the chest circumference by age 2. A head circumference that exceeds the chest circumference could indicate hydrocephalus or other neurological problems.

Choice C is wrong because the fontanels, or soft spots on the skull, should be closed by age 18 months. Palpable fontanels could indicate dehydration, malnutrition, or congenital disorders.

Choice D is wrong because the natural loss of deciduous teeth, or baby teeth, usually begins around age 6. Premature loss of teeth could indicate dental caries, trauma, or endocrine disorders.