A nine-month-old who is not sitting independently has been diagnosed with ataxic cerebral palsy (CP). Which clinical manifestations would the nurse expect to see in the baby?
A)Hypotonia and muscle instability
B)Hypertonia and persistence primitive reflexes
C)Tremors and exaggerated posturing
D)Hemiplegia and hypertonia

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ataxic cerebral palsy typically presents with hypotonia (low muscle tone) and muscle instability, as well as difficulty with balance and coordination. Hypertonia and persistence primitive reflexes are more commonly associated with spastic cerebral palsy. Tremors and exaggerated posturing may be seen in some cases of ataxic CP, but they are not primary features of this type of CP. Hemiplegia and hypertonia are characteristic of another type of CP called hemiplegic CP, but are not typically seen in ataxic CP.

A Nine-Month-Old Who Is Not Sitting Independently Has Been Diagnosed