A father brings his 18-month-old child to the pediatric clinic for a well-baby checkup. The father ...

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Genu varum, or bowlegs, is a normal finding in children for 1 year after they begin walking and the bones of the legs become more ossified with development and weight-bearing. However, assessment over time is important to be sure the gait and positioning develop normally. The nurse should allay the father's concerns by providing him with this information. The child shows no signs, in the scenario, that physical therapy is needed. It is not appropriate for the nurse to recommend an orthopedic surgeon; physician referrals are given by the physician or advanced practice nurse when appropriate. Your child is walking fine . . . is condescending and does not appropriately address the father's concerns.