35. The parents of a child recently diagnosed with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease ask a nurse, "Why does our child have to be in bed for so long?" The nurse's most factual response is because bedrest:
35. The parents of a child recently diagnosed with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease ask a nurse, "Why does our child have to be in bed for so long?" The nurse's most factual response is because bedrest:
. Reduces the inflammation and restores motion.
. Prevents weight-bearing in the affected limb.
. Prevents onset of degenerative arthritis.
. Allows for recovery from the trauma that caused the disease.
Test-Taking Tip
In the initial stage, priority is to ↓ inflammation. Know the four stages of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease in order to answer this question correctly.
Content Area: Child Health, Musculoskeletal; Integrated Process: Teaching and Learning; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Basic Care and Comfort/Mobility/Immobility
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Answer 1 is correct because initial therapy is rest and non–weight-bearing in order to reduce the inflammation and restore motion. There will be other treatment modalities used in arresting this disease, but the first action is aimed at reducing the inflammation and restoring motion through rest and non–weight-bearing. Answer 2 is incorrect because, while preventing weight-bearing in the affected limb is desirable, it is not the initial therapy. This treatment modality includes braces or casts and is initiated later in the plan of care. Answer 3 is incorrect because, while preventing the onset of degenerative arthritis is desirable, it is not the initial therapy. This complication of the disease is usually a later finding in children over 10 years of age who also had a delayed diagnosis of the disease. Answer 4 is incorrect because, while trauma can be the cause of some cases of the disease, the actual cause of the disease is unknown.