Question

Cerebral palsy (CP) is suspected in a child and the parents ask the nurse about the potential warning signs of CP. The nurse should provide which information? Select all that apply.

1. The infant's arms or legs are stiff or rigid.
2. A high risk factor for CP is very low birth weight.
3. By 8 months of age, the infant can sit without support.
4. The infant has strong head control but a limp body posture.
5. The infant has feeding difficulties, such as poor sucking and swallowing.
6. If the infant is able to crawl, only one side is used to propel himself or herself.

Answer 1

The potential warning signs of cerebral palsy include stiff or rigid arms or legs, very low birth weight, strong head control with a limp body posture, and feeding difficulties such as poor sucking and swallowing.

Step-by-step explanation:

When discussing the potential warning signs of cerebral palsy (CP), the nurse should provide the following information:

1. The infant's arms or legs are stiff or rigid. Stiffness or rigidity in the limbs may indicate abnormal muscle tone, a common symptom of CP.
2. A high risk factor for CP is very low birth weight. Babies with low birth weight are more likely to develop cerebral palsy.
3. The infant has strong head control but a limp body posture. This combination of symptoms may suggest CP.
4. The infant has feeding difficulties, such as poor sucking and swallowing. Difficulties with feeding can be an early sign of CP.