Page 561 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN
P. 561
strangulation.
j. Avoid placing large toys in the crib,
because an older infant may use them
as steps to climb.
k. Cribs should be positioned away from
curtains and blind cords.
l. Cover electrical outlets.
m. Remove hazardous objects from low,
reachable places.
n. Remove chemicals such as cleaning or
other household products,
medications, poisons, and plants from
the infant’s reach.
o. Keep the Poison Control Center
number available.
Never shake an infant because of the risk
of causing a closed head injury known as shaken
baby syndrome, which is a life-threatening injury.
B. Toddler
1. Physical
a. Height and weight increase in phases,
reflecting growth spurts and lags.
b. Head circumference increases about 1
inch (25.5 mm) between ages 1 and 2
years; thereafter head circumference
increases about ½ inch (12.5 mm) per
year until age 5 years.
c. Anterior fontanel closes between ages
12 and 18 months.
d. Weight gain is slower than in infancy;
by age 2 years, the average weight is 22
to 27 pounds (10 to 12 kg).
e. Normal height changes include a
growth of about 3 inches (7.5 cm) per
year; the average height of the toddler
is 34 inches (86 cm) at age 2 years.
f. Lordosis (pot belly) is noted.
g. Regular dental care is essential,
and the toddler will require assistance
with brushing and flossing of teeth
(fluoride supplements may be
necessary if the water is not
fluoridated).
561