A nurse is reviewing developmental concepts for infants and ...

[dmcintosh]

A nurse is reviewing developmental concepts for infants and children. Which statement best describes development in infants and children?
 
  a. Development, a predictable and orderly process, occurs at varying rates within normal limits.
  b. Development is primarily related to the growth in the number and size of cells.
  c. Development occurs in a proximodistal direction with fine muscle development occurring first.
  d. Development is more easily and accurately measured than growth.

Question 2

Patient and parent education for the child who has a synthetic cast should include which information?
 
  a. Apply a heating pad to the cast if the child has swelling in the affected extremity.
  b. Wrap the outer surface of the cast with an Ace bandage.
  c. Split the cast if the child complains of numbness or pain.
  d. Cover the cast with plastic and waterproof tape to keep it dry while bathing or showering.

[Bigfoot1984]

Answer to Question 1

A
Development, a continuous orderly process, provides the basis for increases in the child's function and complexity of behavior. The increases in rate of function and complexity can vary normally within limits for each child. An increase in the number and size of cells is a definition for growth. Development proceeds in a proximodistal direction with fine muscle organization occurring as a result of large muscle organization. Development is a more complex process that is affected by many factors; therefore, it is less easily and accurately measured. Growth is a predictable process with standard measurement methods.

Answer to Question 2

D
Damp skin is more susceptible to breakdown. The cast should be kept clean and dry. To prevent swelling, elevate the extremity and apply bagged ice to the casted area. Wrapping the outer surface with an Ace bandage is not indicated. If the child complains of numbness or pain, he should return immediately to the clinic or emergency department for an evaluation of neurovascular status.