In what order should a nurse perform a growth and development assessment in an infant?

Performing a growth and development assessment in an infant follows a systematic approach that prioritizes the comfort of the child while also ensuring the effectiveness of the assessment. Starting with auscultation is ideal because it allows the nurse to listen to heart and lung sounds while the infant is calm, often before any physical contact that may cause discomfort. This method minimizes anxiety and ensures that important vital signs are assessed accurately.

Following auscultation with palpation allows the nurse to assess additional physical parameters, such as the abdomen and any possible abnormalities, while maintaining the infant's comfort. Inspecting the mouth next is logical as it can be done quickly and with minimal distress, particularly after the infant has been calmed by the previous steps. Eliciting the Moro reflex last is appropriate because it is a more active test that may startle the infant, potentially causing fussiness. Therefore, this sequence helps to support a cooperative environment throughout the assessment process.

Other sequences, such as inspecting the mouth first or moving palpation ahead of auscultation, could lead to unnecessary discomfort or stress for the infant, which may interfere with the assessment outcomes.