Question

The nurse is assisting a health care provider (HCP) examining an infant with developmental dysplasia of the hip perform an Ortolani maneuver. The nurse understands that this maneuver is performed for which purpose?

A. To assess for spinal deformities
B. To evaluate hip joint stability
C. To test for allergic reactions
D. To measure head circumference

Answer 1

The Ortolani maneuver is performed to evaluate the stability of an infant's hip joints in order to detect any developmental dysplasia. It involves lifting and abducting the legs while feeling for a 'clunk' as the hip is reduced, signaling instability.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse is assisting a health care provider in performing an Ortolani maneuver on an infant suspected of having developmental dysplasia of the hip. The Ortolani maneuver is a clinical assessment tool used to evaluate the stability of the infant's hip joints. During the maneuver, the provider gently lifts and abducts the infant's legs while applying upward pressure, feeling for a 'clunk' sensation, which can indicate that the dislocated hip is being reduced or re-entering the socket.

This clinical test is important for early detection of hip dysplasia, which can lead to future walking difficulties, pain, or osteoarthritis if not corrected. It is not used to assess for spinal deformities, test for allergic reactions, or measure head circumference. The correct purpose of the Ortolani maneuver is to evaluate hip joint stability, which provides insight into the potential presence and severity of developmental dysplasia of the hip.