Question

Which finding would the nurse suspect as abnormal in the infant during initial assessment?

1) Eyes crossed at times
2) Persistent high-pitched cry
3) Arms and legs flexed
4) Slight bluish tinge of the extremities

Answer 1

A persistent high-pitched cry in an infant during an initial assessment is suspected to be an abnormal finding and may require further evaluation. Other options, such as crossed eyes, flexed limbs, and slight bluish tinge of extremities may be within normal limits for a newborn.

Step-by-step explanation:

The assessment of an infant during the initial examination can reveal various signs that indicate normal or abnormal health status. In the provided options, a persistent high-pitched cry would be the finding that a nurse might suspect as abnormal. A high-pitched cry can signal neurological problems, pain, or other forms of distress and warrants further evaluation.

Crossed eyes can be a normal finding in infants as their vision is still developing. Arms and legs being flexed is also a usual posture for infants and demonstrates appropriate muscle tone. A slight bluish tinge of the extremities, known as acrocyanosis, can be normal right after birth but should resolve shortly after. Therefore, it is important that the nurse continually monitors and reassesses the infant to ensure that any potential issues are identified and addressed.