The parents of a 6-year-old child recently diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy express that their child wants to continue attending swimming classes. How should the nurse respond?

Choice A rationale Suggesting that the child participate in a team sport to encourage socialization is not the best response. Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive disease that causes muscle weakness and loss of muscle mass. Participating in a team sport could be physically challenging for the child and could potentially lead to injury. Choice B rationale Encouraging the parents to allow the child to continue attending swimming lessons with supervision is the best response. Swimming is a low-impact exercise that can help maintain muscle strength and flexibility in children with DMD. It also provides an opportunity for socialization. Choice C rationale Explaining that the child is too young to understand the risks associated with swimming is not the best response. Children with DMD can participate in swimming with appropriate supervision and safety measures in place. Choice D rationale Providing a list of alternative activities that are less likely to cause the child to experience fatigue is not the best response. While it’s important to consider activities that are appropriate for the child’s physical abilities, it’s also important to consider the child’s interests. The child has expressed a desire to continue swimming, and with appropriate supervision, this activity can be beneficial.