When suctioning a child with a tracheostomy, what should the nurse do to maintain a patent airway and prevent complications?

Choice A rationale

A protruding tongue is a common characteristic in children diagnosed with Down syndrome. This is due to hypotonia (low muscle tone) and a relatively small oral cavity.

Choice B rationale

An outward slant to the eyes, also known as upslanting palpebral fissures, is a common characteristic in children with Down syndrome.

Choice C rationale

Wide-spaced front teeth are not typically associated with Down syndrome. Dental anomalies in Down syndrome often include delayed eruption of teeth and missing or extra teeth.

Choice D rationale

Curved, small fingers are a common characteristic in children with Down syndrome. This is part of the typical hand morphology that may also include a single palmar crease.

Choice E rationale

Simian creases, also known as single palmar creases, are common in children with Down syndrome. This is a single crease that runs across the palm of the hand, instead of the usual three creases.

Choice A rationale:

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a condition in which the hip joint is not properly formed or is unstable. Asymmetric thigh folds are a common finding in infants with DDH, as the affected hip may be dislocated or subluxated, leading to a difference in thigh fold appearance.

Choice B rationale:

An inwardly turned foot is not a specific indication of DDH. Instead, it may suggest other conditions, such as clubfoot or metatarsus adductus (no reference).

Choice C rationale:

Absent plantar reflexes are not associated with DDH. This finding might indicate a neurological issue or spinal cord injury (no reference).

Choice D rationale:

A lengthened thigh is not a typical finding in DDH. Instead, a shortened thigh on the affected side might be present due to the displacement of the femoral head (no reference).