Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

When assisting a patient with spastic cerebral palsy with daily activities, what is the most important action?

1. Moving spastic body parts with rapid movements

2. Using assistive devices for all tasks

3. Moving spastic body parts with slow, even movements

4. Positioning patient in a standing frame

The correct answer is: Moving spastic body parts with slow, even movements

The most important action when assisting a patient with spastic cerebral palsy is to move spastic body parts with slow, even movements. This approach is crucial because patients with spastic cerebral palsy experience heightened muscle tone and stiffness, which can lead to involuntary muscle spasms. Implementing slow and controlled movements helps to accommodate the patient's condition, reducing the risk of injury and promoting comfort. This method also aids in maintaining the range of motion and can improve the patient's ability to engage in daily activities effectively. In contrast, rapid movements could exacerbate spasticity and provoke discomfort or even injury. While assistive devices can be beneficial, they are not universally necessary for all tasks, and over-reliance may inhibit a patient's functional independence. Positioning a patient in a standing frame can offer benefits in terms of posture and mobility but is not the primary focus during daily activities. Thus, emphasizing slow, even movement is central to safely assisting a patient with spastic cerebral palsy.