What should a nurse avoid during a physical assessment of an infant?

During a physical assessment of an infant, it is essential to create a calm and supportive environment to ensure that the infant feels secure and relaxed. Maintaining a quick pace to finish the exam can be detrimental to this process. Infants often require more time for assessments as they can be sensitive to rapid movements and may need time to acclimate to the environment and the presence of the nurse.

Taking a deliberate approach not only allows the nurse to thoroughly assess the infant's health but also provides the opportunity to observe the infant’s reactions, which can be crucial in understanding their well-being. When the pace is rushed, the nurse might miss important cues about the infant’s comfort level or distress, which can affect the overall assessment.

Furthermore, employing a gentle, measured approach will enhance the nurse-infant interaction, helping to build trust and cooperation, thereby supporting a more effective examination. This approach aligns well with the developmental needs of infants, who thrive on gentle handling and reassurance during clinical encounters.