When educating parents of a child with cerebral palsy, which statement should the nurse make?

The recommended choice emphasizes that a child with cerebral palsy may need a botulinum toxin A injection to help manage muscle spasticity. This reflects a common therapeutic strategy used to relieve tightness in muscles that can cause pain and limit movement in children with this condition. Botulinum toxin works by temporarily blocking nerve signals to the muscles where it is injected, which can lead to improved functional mobility and allow for better engagement in physical therapy and daily activities.

The use of botulinum toxin A for muscle spasticity is well-documented in clinical practice, as it can be an effective component of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes physical therapy and other interventions aimed at improving quality of life and functional abilities for children with cerebral palsy. It is important to communicate to parents that treatment plans are individualized and that interventions like botulinum toxin A are just one part of the larger picture in managing their child's condition.