The parents of a child with cerebral palsy ask the nurse if any ...

[Awilson837]

The parents of a child with cerebral palsy ask the nurse if any drugs can decrease their child's spasticity. The nurse's response should be based on knowing that:
 
  a. Anticonvulsant medications are sometimes useful for controlling spasticity.
  b. Medications that would be useful in reducing spasticity are too toxic for use with children.
  c. Many different medications can be highly effective in controlling spasticity.
  d. Implantation of a pump to deliver medication into the intrathecal space to decrease spasticity has recently become available.

Question 2

The most common problem of children born with a myelomeningocele is:
 
  a. Neurogenic bladder. c. Respiratory compromise.
  b. Intellectual impairment. d. Cranioschisis.

[kalskdjl1212]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Baclofen given intrathecally is best suited for children with severe spasticity that interferes with activities of daily living and ambulation. Anticonvulsant medications are used when seizures occur in children with cerebral palsy. The intrathecal route decreases the side effects of the drugs that reduce spasticity. Few medications are presently available for the control of spasticity.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A
Myelomeningocele is one of the most common causes of neuropathic (neurogenic) bladder dysfunction among children. Risk of intellectual impairment is minimized through early intervention and management of hydrocephalus. Respiratory compromise is not a common problem in myelomeningocele. Cranioschisis is a skull defect through which various tissues protrude. It is not associated with myelomeningocele.

[Awilson837]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it

[coreycathey]

Excellent