The nurse is asked by the parent of a pediatric patient to explain the difference between growth and development. Which response by the nurse is best?
A) "Growth is physical while development relates to physical, emotional, and cognitive function."
B) "There really is no difference between the two since they occur simultaneously."
C) "Development refers to musculoskeletal and nervous system abilities and growth is a change in height and weight."
D) "Both refer to an increase in abilities and functions of the child that occur sequentially over time."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Growth relates to physical changes in height and weight. Development refers to changes in ability across several dimensions such as physical, emotional, and cognitive. Stating that the two are not really different does not show understanding of this difference. Development is not related strictly to changes in specific body systems. Although both refer to increases in abilities and functioning over time, this answer is too vague to give the parent useful information.

The Nurse Is Asked by the Parent of a Pediatric