Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

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Prepare for the Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with detailed hints and explanations. Excel in your certification!

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What is a healthy 6-month-old's anterior fontanel expected to be?

Open
Sunken
Closed
Bulging

The correct answer is: Open

The anterior fontanel of a healthy 6-month-old is expected to be open. At this age, the fontanel is typically still soft and allows for the growth of the infant's brain, which is crucial during the early months of life. The anterior fontanel usually closes between 9 to 18 months, meaning that it should not be closed at 6 months. If the fontanel is closed premature, this could indicate potential issues with brain growth or development. A sunken fontanel might suggest dehydration or malnutrition, while a bulging fontanel could indicate increased intracranial pressure, both of which are concerning in an infant. Thus, an open fontanel is the expected and healthy finding for a 6-month-old infant.