Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

When planning care for a child with cerebral palsy, what strategy should the nurse prioritize?

1. Reduce sensory input during assessments

2. Facilitate communication with the child by their usual means

3. Encourage the child to engage in physical therapy

4. Schedule regular unsupervised playtime

The correct answer is: Facilitate communication with the child by their usual means

The most critical strategy for planning care for a child with cerebral palsy is to facilitate communication with the child by their usual means. Communication is essential for understanding the child's needs, preferences, and feelings, especially considering that many children with cerebral palsy may have speech impairments or difficulty in expressing themselves verbally. Employing the child's preferred mode of communication—whether it is verbal, through assistive devices, sign language, or a combination—ensures that they can participate actively in their care and advocate for their own needs. This approach not only promotes autonomy and self-expression but also strengthens the nurse-child relationship, thereby enhancing trust and engagement in the care process. By prioritizing effective communication, healthcare providers can better assess the child's overall well-being and adapt interventions to meet their individualized needs. Other strategies, while important, may not prioritize the holistic involvement of the child in their care. For example, reducing sensory input during assessments may not address the primary goal of fostering communication. Encouraging physical therapy is crucial for the child’s mobility and development, but without effective communication, the child may feel disengaged or frustrated. Scheduling regular unsupervised playtime might not provide the necessary support and interaction the child needs to communicate or express their feelings. Thus, prioritizing