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    NURS 227 Pediatric Nursing Proctored Exam

    A child with spastic cerebral palsy presents with a history of hypertonicty, contractures, poor control of movement and difficulty eating. The nurse knows to direct management towards:

    Explanation & Rationale

    A. Physical therapy only: While physical therapy plays a key role in improving mobility, flexibility, and preventing contractures, relying on it alone does not address the full spectrum of needs. Children with spastic cerebral palsy often require additional interventions such as nutritional support, medications, and assistive devices. B. Decreasing strengthening exercises: Strengthening exercises are important for maintaining muscle function and improving mobility in children with cerebral palsy. Reducing these exercises may worsen muscle weakness and functional limitations, especially in a condition already characterized by impaired motor control. C. Medications: Medications such as muscle relaxants or antispasmodics can help reduce spasticity, but they do not address feeding difficulties, developmental needs, or functional mobility on their own. Pharmacologic therapy is typically part of a broader, coordinated care plan. D. Multidisciplinary supportive care: Management of spastic cerebral palsy requires a comprehensive approach involving physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, nutritional support, and medical management. This approach addresses motor impairment, feeding difficulties, and overall development, improving quality of life and functional outcomes.

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