A nurse is collecting data from an 18-month-old toddler at a well-child visit. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Explanation & Rationale
A. The toddler can remove her own socks: This demonstrates fine motor development and self-help skills typical for an 18-month-old. Activities such as removing clothing or manipulating objects indicate appropriate progression of autonomy and dexterity. B. The toddler has a security blanket: Attachment to a security object is a normal behavior that provides comfort and emotional regulation. It is developmentally appropriate for toddlers and does not indicate a developmental delay or health concern that requires provider notification. C. The toddler can say four words: By 18 months, toddlers are expected to have a vocabulary of approximately 10–20 words and begin combining words into simple phrases. A vocabulary limited to four words may indicate delayed speech and language development, warranting further evaluation by the provider or referral to a speech-language pathologist. D. The toddler throws a ball without falling: Gross motor skills such as throwing a ball, walking, and climbing stairs independently are appropriate for an 18-month-old. This finding demonstrates normal motor development and coordination and does not require reporting.