Question

a school nurse is preparing a physical education plan for a child with down syndrome. before preparing the plan, the nurse obtains a copy of an x-ray report of the child's:

Answer 1

The school nurse should review the x-ray report of the child's cervical spine to ensure safe physical activity planning for a child with Down syndrome, which typically involves trisomy 21.

Step-by-step explanation:

A school nurse preparing a physical education plan for a child with Down syndrome should obtain a copy of an x-ray report of the child's cervical spine before proceeding. Children with Down syndrome may have atlantoaxial instability due to ligamentous laxity, which can increase the risk of injury during certain physical activities. A cervical spine x-ray is essential to assess the stability of the vertebrae and ensure the safety of the child during physical exercise.

Down syndrome is characterized by trisomy 21, where individuals have three copies of chromosome 21, leading to various health challenges. Physical education plans should be adapted to each child's abilities and health status, considering the presence of potential heart defects, hypotonia, and joint hypermobility that are common in Down syndrome.