The nurse recognizes all of the following as common physical characteristics of a child with Down syndrome EXCEPT

  • small, low-set ears.
  • downward slanting eyes.
  • hyperflexibility.
  • enlarged tongue.
Number 2 is correct.
Common physical characteristics seen in children with Down syndrome include small, low-set ears; hyperflexibility; enlarged tongue; flat facial features; and a single deep crease in the palm. Upward slanting eyes, not downward slanting eyes, are characteristic of children with Down syndrome.