The pediatric nurse practitioner provides primary care for a 5-year-old child diagnosed with cerebral palsy who exhibits athetosis and poor weight gain in spite of receiving high-calorie formula to supplement intake. The child has had several episodes of pneumonia in the past year. Which specialty consultation is a priority for this child?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The child's poor weight gain in spite of high-calorie formula and history of pneumonia indicates a potential need for a gastrostomy tube for feeding and a fundoplication to prevent reflux. Therefore, a referral to a surgeon for a possible fundoplication and gastrostomy is the priority for this child.

The Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Provides Primary Care for a 5-Year-Old