A nurse is preparing to initiate IV antibiotic therapy for a newly admitted 12-month-old infant. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?

The correct answer is B: Use a 24-gauge catheter to start the IV. In infants, smaller gauge catheters (24-26 gauge) are recommended for IV access to minimize discomfort and risk of phlebitis. Using a larger gauge catheter can lead to complications such as infiltration and extravasation. Covering the site with an opaque dressing (choice A) is not necessary as long as the site is secure and clean. Starting the IV on the infant's foot (choice C) is not recommended due to the increased risk of complications and difficulty in maintaining the line. Changing the IV site every 3 days (choice D) is not evidence-based practice unless there are complications or signs of infection.