Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

During a health visit, what should the nurse educate parents about proper car seat use for toddlers?

1. They can switch to a booster seat at 2 years old.

2. Children should be in a rear-facing position until at least 4 years old.

3. Harness straps should be placed over heavy winter clothing.

4. Car seats should only be used in the front seat.

The correct answer is: Children should be in a rear-facing position until at least 4 years old.

Proper car seat use is critical for the safety of toddlers, and children should be kept in a rear-facing position until they reach at least 4 years of age. This practice is recommended because rear-facing car seats provide better support for the head, neck, and spine of a young child in the event of a collision. In a rear-facing position, the car seat acts as a protective shell, absorbing the impact and reducing the risk of serious injury. This aligns with current safety guidelines from organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, which emphasizes that children remain in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible, ideally until they outgrow the height or weight limits established by the car seat manufacturer. This ensures that the toddler is not only safer in the event of a crash but also benefits from the developmental support that a rear-facing position offers. Transitioning to a booster seat should only occur once the child has outgrown the rear-facing seat, which typically happens after the age of 4. Proper guidance on the transition stages of car seats is crucial for parental education.