Question

A pediatric nurse is having a discussion with a father whose child has recently been diagnosed with spastic cerebral palsy. Which of the following statements by the nurse is appropriate?

1) It must be very hard to know that your child's ability to move will decrease over time.
2) I am sure that it is hard for you to know that your child has this disease, but at least the medicine will treat the underlying problem.
3) The treatment plan for your child will focus on enabling him to have as normal movements as possible.
4) The nerve stimulation of your child's legs will enable him to walk on his own when he is older.

Answer 1

The nurse should convey that the treatment will aim to enable the child to have as normal movements as possible, highlighting the goal of maximizing the child's functional abilities despite the diagnosis of cerebral palsy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The appropriate statement by the nurse to the father whose child has recently been diagnosed with spastic cerebral palsy is: "The treatment plan for your child will focus on enabling him to have as normal movements as possible." This acknowledges the condition and focuses on a realistic and positive aspect of care, stressing the importance of facilitating the child's abilities to the greatest extent possible.

It's essential to understand that while there is no known cure for cerebral palsy, treatment can focus on therapy and support to improve function. Treatments such as physical therapy, and possibly speech and occupational therapy, can help children develop to their fullest potential. Moreover, spastic cerebral palsy, which is a motor disorder caused by brain injury sustained before, during, or shortly after birth, typically does not progressively worsen over time, though the symptoms can change as the child grows.