Paediatrics

On a paediatric placement earlier this semester under the supervision of my CCT I was assessing a 18 month year old boy who had been referred by a Child Health Nurse for delayed motor development. The mother indicated that she was aware something was not right but appeared to be looking to us for reassurance that this was not serious. Unfortunately as I progressed with my assessment it became more and more apparent to me that this child had a significant motor delay and was probably diplegic. At this stage the mother had not had any input from a paediatrician. At the conclusion on my assessment the CCT checked a few things and then asked the mother to excuse us while we discussed my findings in private. I voiced my concerns to the tutor and she concurred with my diagnosis and offered to explain to the parent. I accepted her offer and was interested to watch her approach to the parent. She confirmed with the parent that the mother was correct to be concerned about the child's problems and that she would like to refer the child to a paediatrician for further assessment. She did not jump in and tell the parent that she suspected the child had cerebral palsy. She addressed a number of areas where the child was having difficulties and offered therapy for these. She indicated to the parent that it was likely that the child would require ongoing therapy. Having the opportunity to listen to an experienced clinician deliver such news was a valuable learning experience. It clearly defined the role of the physio in these circumstances and I feel that if I am placed in a similar situation I will feel more comfortable and able to deliver such news in an caring and considered manner.