A parent with his 7-year-old son at the pediatric clinic expresses concern that the child is too short. The nurse measures the child and finds him to be 100 cm (39.3 inches) tall. Which statement by the nurse is most appropriate?

A.
"Children are often 'too short' until they reach puberty."
B.
"He's shorter than average, but it's not significant."
C.
"Let's discuss some options for promoting growth."
D.
"Your child is of average height for a 7-year-old."


ANS: C
This child's height is well below the 5th percentile for age, so he could have hypopituitarism leading to growth hormone deficiency. The nurse should acknowledge the fact and begin discussions about the condition gently and objectively. The other answers are not appropriate.

Nursing

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