Ace the Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN) Exam 2025 – Leap into Your Nursing Adventure!

The true statement about growth and development is that development refers to maturation and includes growth. In the context of pediatric nursing, development encompasses the broader spectrum of changes that occur as a child matures, which includes both cognitive and physical growth.

When considering growth, it typically refers to the quantitative increase in size or mass, such as a child's height and weight. Development, however, is more qualitative and involves the progression of skills and abilities, such as cognitive, emotional, and social maturation. Therefore, development is not limited to just maturation of structures but also incorporates the aspect of growth, as both processes are interrelated during childhood and contribute to overall well-being.

In contrast, the other statements do not fully encompass the relationship between growth and development. The idea that development refers only to maturation without including growth oversimplifies the interplay between the two processes. Additionally, while growth and development can follow a certain pattern, they do not strictly adhere to a specific-to-general progression at all times; rather they can be influenced by numerous factors such as genetics and environment.