A parent is concerned because her 10-month-old is lethargic. What should the nurse advise?

A parent is concerned because her 10-month-old is lethargic. What should the nurse advise?

• A. Go to the Emergency Department
• B. Call the pediatrician
• C. Give water
• D. Put the baby to bed

Answer: (A)

Lethargy in a 10-month-old is a red flag that can indicate a serious, rapidly worsening illness. Infants can deteriorate quickly from infections, dehydration, hypoglycemia, or other conditions, so a prompt professional evaluation is essential. Going to the Emergency Department ensures immediate assessment of airway, breathing, circulation, hydration, and any needed tests or treatments. Giving water isn’t a reliable or sufficient remedy for lethargy in an infant and could lead to other problems. Putting the baby to bed delays necessary care, and waiting for a call back to the pediatrician may miss signs of serious illness that require urgent attention. If the child remains lethargic or shows other concerning symptoms (not waking easily, poor feeding, vomiting, high fever, trouble breathing, or inconsolable behavior), seek emergency care right away.

Lethargy in a 10-month-old is a red flag that can indicate a serious, rapidly worsening illness. Infants can deteriorate quickly from infections, dehydration, hypoglycemia, or other conditions, so a prompt professional evaluation is essential. Going to the Emergency Department ensures immediate assessment of airway, breathing, circulation, hydration, and any needed tests or treatments.

Giving water isn’t a reliable or sufficient remedy for lethargy in an infant and could lead to other problems. Putting the baby to bed delays necessary care, and waiting for a call back to the pediatrician may miss signs of serious illness that require urgent attention. If the child remains lethargic or shows other concerning symptoms (not waking easily, poor feeding, vomiting, high fever, trouble breathing, or inconsolable behavior), seek emergency care right away.