HESI Registered Nurse EXIT Practice Exam

During a developmental assessment of an 8 month-old, which finding should be reported to the health care provider?

1. Lifts head from the prone position

2. Rolls from abdomen to back

3. Responds to parents' voices

4. Falls forward when sitting

The correct answer is: Falls forward when sitting

In the context of developmental milestones for an 8-month-old, the finding indicating that the infant falls forward when sitting is significant and should be reported to the healthcare provider. At this age, children are typically expected to have developed the ability to sit independently and maintain their balance without significant support or falling forward. This suggests that the infant may not be reaching developmental benchmarks in core strength and stability, which can be critical for future motor development. The other findings are consistent with typical developmental progress for an 8-month-old. Lifting the head from a prone position is an expected skill and signals good neck and upper body strength. Rolling from the abdomen to the back is also a normal milestone and indicates that the baby is developing motor skills effectively. Additionally, responding to parents' voices is a key indicator of social engagement and cognitive development at this age, showing that the infant is aware of and interacts with their environment. Collectively, these milestones illustrate appropriate development, while the inability to sit without falling suggests a potential developmental concern that warrants further assessment by a healthcare provider.