The nurse is caring for a 3-year-old toddler diagnosed with cerebral palsy (CP). What measures to prevent contractures should the nurse teach the toddler's parents?
Explanation
• Preventing contractures is important for maintaining motor function. Contractures can be prevented with the use of leg braces and passive exercises.
• Parents should be encouraged to incorporate active exercises into play activities.
• Children need to learn self-care measures so they can gain self-esteem from accomplishing these tasks and achieve optimal independence. This does not help prevent contractures.
• Effectiveness of medications to reduce muscle spasticity, such as Botox, are questionable and rarely used long-term.