During a health maintenance visit, the nurse measures the height and weight of an infant and plots the measurements on the growth chart. The nurse notes a slowed growth pattern
Which action by the nurse is the most appropriate at this time?
1. Obtaining an endocrinologist referral.
2. Performing a nutritional assessment.
3. Waiting until the next visit to intervene.
4. Assessing for circulatory problems.
Correct Answer: 2
The nurse should perform a nutritional assessment because slowed growth is an early indicator of inadequate nutrition. It is expected that the rate of growth will remain consistent throughout infancy. Referring the baby to an endocrinologist would be done by the health care provider, not the nurse, as this is outside the nurse's scope of practice. The nurse should not wait until the next visit to intervene as early intervention, which commonly involves parent education and support, can often resolve problems. Before looking for other causes of slowed growth, the nurse should first assess the baby's nutritional status. Assessing for circulatory problems might follow if adequate nutrition has already been established.
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