The nurse must monitor the trough level of medication.
When would the nurse order the trough level?

Choice A rationale

While palpation is a critical skill, this statement does not directly complete the given sentence which defines palpation as a technique. The existing sentence establishes the "what" of palpation, and the completion should elaborate on "how" it's performed or its direct characteristics.

Choice B rationale

Palpation certainly helps identify abnormalities, but this statement describes a benefit or outcome of the technique, not the core method itself as described in the initial sentence. The sentence sets up the physical action, not its diagnostic utility.

Choice C rationale

This choice logically completes the sentence by explaining the *methodology* of palpation, directly following the description of the senses involved and what is being assessed. It specifies that the technique involves "careful and systematic touching of the body," which directly relates to the physical act of assessment.

Choice D rationale

Proper palpation technique ensures accurate examinations, but this statement focuses on the *quality* of the technique rather than describing the technique itself. The initial sentence defines the technique; the completion should expand on its execution, not its outcome. .

Choice A rationale

The vastus lateralis muscle is the preferred intramuscular injection site for infants and children due to its large muscle mass and lack of major nerves or blood vessels, minimizing the risk of injury. This site is easily accessible and provides a safe area for medication absorption in developing musculature.

Choice B rationale

The ventrogluteal site is generally considered safe and effective for intramuscular injections, but it requires precise anatomical landmark identification, which can be challenging in infants and young children, increasing the risk of sciatic nerve injury if landmarks are not accurately identified.

Choice C rationale

The dorsogluteal site is contraindicated for intramuscular injections in infants and children due to the risk of sciatic nerve damage. The sciatic nerve runs through this area, and the muscle mass is not fully developed in younger patients, making it a hazardous site.

Choice D rationale

The deltoid muscle is too small and underdeveloped in infants and young children to safely accommodate intramuscular injections. Its limited muscle mass increases the risk of injury to underlying nerves and blood vessels, and absorption capacity is reduced.