Question

The nurse is conducting a physical examination of a child with suspected developmental dysplasia of the hip. Which finding would help confirm this diagnosis?

A) Abduction occurs to 75 degrees and adduction to within 30 degrees (with stable pelvis).
B) A distinct ""clunk"" is heard with Barlow and Ortolani maneuvers.
C) Knee height is equal.
D) The thigh and gluteal folds are symmetrical.

Answer 1

To confirm a diagnosis of developmental dysplasia of the hip, the nurse should look for limited abduction and adduction, a distinct 'clunk' sound with specific maneuvers, and symmetrical thigh and gluteal folds.

Step-by-step explanation:

To confirm a diagnosis of developmental dysplasia of the hip during a physical examination, the nurse should look for certain findings. One finding would be if abduction (movement of the leg away from the midline of the body) occurs to a limited degree, around 75 degrees, and adduction (movement of the leg toward the midline of the body) is within 30 degrees. Additionally, a distinct 'clunk' sound may be heard with Barlow and Ortolani maneuvers, which are used to detect hip instability. Symmetrical thigh and gluteal folds would also be a finding that helps confirm the diagnosis.