WITH NGN (ACTUAL) EXAM REVIEW – ALL QUESTIONS AND
CORRECT ANSWERS GRADED A+/ NGN RN NURSING CARE
OF CHILDREN LATEST EXAM REVIEW
Category 1: Growth and Development (Questions 1-30)
Question 1
A 4-year-old child is admitted to the pediatric unit. The nurse notes the child is
refusing to eat and is crying for their "blankie." Which developmental behavior is
the child exhibiting?
A) Regression
B) Ritualism
C) Negativism
D) Separation anxiety
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Regression is the retreat to an earlier developmental stage, such as
thumb-sucking or clinging to a comfort object (blankie), which is common during
hospitalizations. Ritualism involves a need for routine, negativism is saying "no"
frequently, and separation anxiety is more prominent in infants.
Question 2
The mother of a 2-year-old asks the nurse if it is normal for her child to play next to
other children but not with them. What is the best response by the nurse?
A) "This is called associative play and is typical for this age."
,B) "This is called parallel play and is developmentally appropriate."
C) "This is called cooperative play and indicates advanced development."
D) "This is called solitary play and is concerning for autism."
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Toddlers engage in parallel play, where they play alongside but not
interactively with other children. Associative play involves some interaction, and
cooperative play is typical for school-age children.
Question 3
A nurse is assessing an 8-month-old infant. Which fine motor skill should the nurse
anticipate the infant can perform?
A) Pincer grasp
B) Palmar grasp
C) Holding a crayon to scribble
D) Stacking two blocks
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The pincer grasp (using the thumb and forefinger) typically develops
around 9 months, but 8 months is near the end of this development window. Palmar
grasp is a neonatal reflex. Scribbling and stacking blocks occur during the toddler
years.
Question 4
A parent of a 15-month-old expresses concern that their child is not walking
independently yet. What is the most appropriate response by the nurse?
A) "This is a significant delay and warrants immediate neurological evaluation."
B) "Most toddlers walk by 12 months, so you should be concerned."
,C) "This is within the normal age range, as walking can occur up to 18 months."
D) "You should start physical therapy immediately."
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The average age for independent walking is 12 months, but the normal
range is 9 to 18 months. Therefore, 15 months is still within normal limits.
Question 5
Which developmental milestone would the nurse expect a 5-year-old child to
achieve?
A) Tying shoelaces
B) Using a fork to eat
C) Riding a tricycle
D) Drawing a stick figure with several body parts
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A 5-year-old can draw a person with at least 6 body parts. Tying
shoelaces is a fine motor skill achieved around 6-7 years. Using a fork happens
around 4, and riding a tricycle happens around 3-4 years.
Question 6
A nurse is providing anticipatory guidance to the parents of a 1-month-old. Which
immunization does the nurse anticipate the infant will receive at the 2-month
checkup?
A) MMR
B) Varicella
C) DTaP
D) Hepatitis A
, Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) vaccine is administered at 2, 4,
and 6 months of age. MMR and Varicella are given at 12-15 months. Hepatitis A is
given at 12 months.
Question 7
A toddler is having a temper tantrum in the hospital playroom. Which action should
the nurse take?
A) Place the child in time-out for 5 minutes.
B) Offer the child a choice between two acceptable activities.
C) Ignore the behavior completely.
D) Tell the child that they are being a bad boy.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Toddlers have a strong need for autonomy. Offering choices gives them
a sense of control and can often de-escalate a tantrum. Ignoring can sometimes
work but offering a choice is more proactive and therapeutic.
Question 8
The nurse is assessing the gross motor skills of a 3-year-old. Which finding is a
concern?
A) Walking up stairs with alternating feet
B) Standing on one foot for a few seconds
C) Riding a tricycle
D) Walking down stairs using both feet on each step
Correct Answer: A