A nurse is teaching the parent of a newborn about car seat safety.Which of the following statements should the nurse make?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationaleKeeping the car seat rear-facing until the child is at least 2 years old aligns with safety guidelines. Rear-facing positions better protect the baby’s head, neck, and spine during collisions.Choice B rationalePositioning the retainer clip over the abdomen risks compressing soft organs in the event of an accident. The clip should be at the armpit level to ensure proper restraint and avoid injury.Choice C rationalePlacing the baby in a car seat at a 90-degree angle can cause airway obstruction in infants due to their underdeveloped neck muscles. The recommended angle is 30 to 45 degrees to maintain an open airway.Choice D rationaleShoulder harness straps should be placed in the slots at or just below the baby's shoulders in the rear-facing position. This ensures maximum restraint and prevents ejection during an accident.