Final answer:
The parent should be taught that the infant can move within the range permitted by the Pavlik harness, and regular check-ups are necessary to adjust the harness as the infant grows.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a nurse is assisting a 2-week-old infant with developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and a Pavlik harness is prescribed, it is essential to educate the parent on proper use and care of the harness. Teaching should emphasize that while the harness is designed to maintain the hips in an optimal position for hip joint development, the infant should not be completely immobile. The child can and should move their legs within the range allowed by the harness. However, it is crucial for parents to understand that they should not force the legs into positions that the harness does not permit, as correct positioning is crucial for treatment effectiveness.
Regular monitoring and adjustments by healthcare professionals are necessary to ensure proper fit and to accommodate the infant's growth. The harness is typically worn full-time, and parents should be instructed on how to check for signs of skin irritation, proper hygiene, and ways to handle the infant during diaper changes and other care tasks without compromising the harness's position.