Question

The nurse assesses the development of a 3-month-old boy in the well-child clinic. Which of the following behaviors, if observed by the nurse, is UNEXPECTED?

1) The boy holds his head erect when sitting on the examination table.
2) The boy tries to grasp a toy just out of reach.
3) The boy turns his head to try to locate a sound.
4) The boy smiles spontaneously when he sees his mother.

Answer 1

At three months old, babies are typically not able to hold their head erect while sitting without support. By the end of the fourth month, they should have the ability to do so. Therefore, holding the head erect without support at this age would be unexpected.

Step-by-step explanation:

If the nurse were to observe the 3-month-old boy holding his head erect when sitting on the examination table, that behavior would be unexpected. At three months old, babies are typically not able to hold their head erect while sitting without support. By the end of the fourth month, they should have the ability to lift their head 90 degrees while lying prone and sit up with support. Additionally, they are usually able to hold their head steady for brief periods. Therefore, holding the head erect without support at this age would be unexpected.