Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

What indicates effective teaching about home care for a 14-month-old child with spastic cerebral palsy?

1. "I will perform daily stretching exercises to my toddler's affected muscles."

2. "I will ensure my toddler avoids activities that involve repetitive joint movements."

3. "I will place my toddler on his stomach to nap after meals."

4. "I will give my toddler pain medication just after he performs strenuous activities."

The correct answer is: "I will perform daily stretching exercises to my toddler's affected muscles."

The statement about performing daily stretching exercises for the toddler's affected muscles indicates effective teaching about home care for a child with spastic cerebral palsy. Stretching exercises are crucial in managing spasticity, as they help to maintain muscle length, improve flexibility, and potentially reduce the risk of contractures. This approach encourages the development of motor skills and can improve overall function by promoting better movement patterns and muscle balance. In the context of spastic cerebral palsy, consistent therapeutic interventions at home can support the child's physical development and enhance their quality of life. By emphasizing daily stretching, the caregiver is acknowledging the importance of an active role in the child's rehabilitation and management plan, which is essential for promoting optimal development and minimizing complications associated with the condition. Other choices reflect misunderstandings about care strategies, such as avoiding activities that involve repetitive movements, which can be beneficial for motor development, or placing the toddler on their stomach to nap, which is not advised for safe sleep practices. Lastly, the advice regarding pain medication timing does not align with best practices for pain management in pediatric patients, particularly after strenuous activity.