NCLEX STD Practice Exam

Choosing age-appropriate weight as an indicator of lesser risk for complications in a child suspected of having an immunodeficiency highlights several key aspects. A child maintaining a weight that is appropriate for their age suggests that they are likely receiving adequate nutrition and are growing normally. This is significant because proper nutrition supports the immune system, helping to maintain its function and resilience against infections.

A child who is underweight or exhibiting failure to thrive may indicate underlying health concerns, potentially including immunodeficiency. Thus, a child who is within the normal range for weight can be seen as better positioned to cope with infections and other health challenges, lowering the risk of complications.

While low frequency of infections could suggest a lesser risk as well, it's important to note that some immunodeficiencies don't manifest with frequent infections initially, making this not a definitive indicator. Similarly, having a strong family medical history or lacking allergies does not directly correlate to a child's current immune status or risk for complications related to immunodeficiencies.