Page 565 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

available.
C. Preschooler
1. Physical
a. The preschooler grows 2.5 to 3 inches
(6.5 to 7.5 cm) per year.
b. Average height is 37 inches (94 cm) at
age 3 years, 40.5 inches (103 cm) at age
4 years, and 43 inches (110 cm) at age 5
years.
c. The preschooler gains approximately 5
pounds (2.25 kg) per year; average
weight is 40 pounds (18 kg) at age 5
years.
d. The preschooler requires about 12
hours of sleep each day.
e. A security object and a nightlight help
with sleeping.
f. At the beginning of the preschool
period, the eruption of the deciduous
(primary) teeth is complete.
g. Regular dental care is essential,

and the preschooler may require
assistance with brushing and flossing
of teeth; fluoride supplements may be
necessary if the water is not
fluoridated.
2. Vital signs (Box 18-10)
3. Nutrition
a. Nutritional needs are similar to those
required for the toddler, although the
daily amounts of minerals, vitamins,
and protein may increase with age.
b. The MyPlate food guide is appropriate
for preschoolers (see
www.choosemyplate.gov).
c. The preschooler exhibits food fads and
certain taste preferences and may
exhibit finicky eating.
d. By 5 years old, the child tends to focus
on social aspects of eating, table
conversations, manners, and
willingness to try new foods.
4. Skills
a. The preschooler has good posture.
b. The child develops fine motor
coordination.
c. The child can hop, skip, and run more

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