The parents of a child diagnosed with cerebral palsy ask the nurse if any drugs can decrease their child's spasticity.The nurse's response should be based on what knowledge?
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

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

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.

The Parents of a Child Diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy Ask