Which of the following is a correct statement about the anterior fontanelle?

Appeared in: SGPGI Nursing Officer-2024

Explanation

The anterior fontanelle is a diamond-shaped membranous gap in the infant skull.
It is located at the junction of the frontal and parietal bones, specifically where the sagittal and coronal sutures meet.
It typically closes (ossifies) between 12 to 18 months of age to accommodate the rapid growth of the brain.
Since all the individual statements (A, B, and C) are correct, 'All of the above' is the most comprehensive and correct answer.

Option A: This statement is factually correct, but it is not the only correct statement provided. Therefore, it is an incomplete answer.
Option B: This statement is factually correct, but it is not the only correct statement provided. Therefore, it is an incomplete answer.
Option C: This statement is factually correct, but it is not the only correct statement provided. Therefore, it is an incomplete answer.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Anatomy and developmental timeline of the anterior fontanelle as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses assess the anterior fontanelle during routine infant check-ups. A sunken or depressed fontanelle can be a key sign of dehydration.
A bulging or tense fontanelle when the infant is calm can indicate increased intracranial pressure (ICP), which is a medical emergency requiring immediate investigation for conditions like meningitis or hydrocephalus.
Delayed closure of the fontanelle (beyond 24 months) can be an indicator of underlying conditions such as congenital hypothyroidism, rickets, or Down syndrome.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core subject of the question: the anterior fontanelle.
Next, analyze the options. This question includes an 'All of the above' option, which requires you to evaluate each preceding statement for accuracy.
Evaluate statement A: 'It is diamond-shaped'. Recall or verify the shape of the anterior fontanelle. This is a known anatomical fact.
Evaluate statement B: 'It closes by 12–18 months'. Recall or verify the standard timeline for ossification. This is the correct age range.
Evaluate statement C: 'It is located between frontal and parietal bones'. Recall or verify its anatomical location. This is also correct.
Since statements A, B, and C are all factually correct, conclude that 'All of the above' is the most complete and therefore the correct choice.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QzTdbihS_z4LXJCwsRidgF

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 2 p. 1357-1359

E6 Anatomy Applied Ashalatha 4e p. 274-276

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