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A nurse is caring for a child recently diagnosed with cerebral palsy. The parents of the child ask the nurse about the disorder. The nurse bases the response to the parents on the understanding that cerebral palsy is_____________

User Benvd
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Final answer:

Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder caused by an injury to the brain before, during, or shortly after birth, leading to various motor difficulties. There is no cure, and it manifests in symptoms ranging from mild muscle weakness to severe mobility and communication challenges. It's a lifelong condition that requires ongoing management.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that occurs due to an injury to the developing brain. This injury can happen before, during, or shortly after birth, and it is more common in infants with a low birth weight. The disorder affects the brain areas that control body movements, which can lead to symptoms such as weak muscles in mild cases and difficulties with walking and talking in more severe instances. There isn't a known cure for cerebral palsy, and it is a lifelong condition that individuals must manage.

Children like the one in the second event speech, born prematurely and at a very low birth weight, are at a higher risk for developing cerebral palsy. Despite their physical challenges, many with cerebral palsy lead fulfilling lives and develop strategies to cope with and compensate for their disabilities, often with the support of family, medical professionals, and assistive technologies.

It is important to note that cerebral palsy differs from other neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, though they can have overlapping symptoms. Moreover, neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease or ALS represent a different category of neurological conditions, primarily affecting adults.

User KingRauk
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