Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: A Case Study

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In the practice of nursing, the scope of care provided is not confined. Nursing care extends to all ages and health deviations. There are particular health deviations that affect children and progress to the child’s adulthood. Numerous parents enjoy the experience of their children reaching developmental milestones; however, every child does not reach milestones or they might have a sort of delay. The developmental delays based on the child’s severity, require special nursing care and responsibilities. It is the intent of this paper to discuss the illness of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Included will be information regarding the course of illness, stressful effects on the family unit, the role of the nurse, consumer groups to help families cope, and strategies to promote optimal wellness.
Course of Ilness Duchene Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a rapidly progressive form of Muscular Dystrophy characterized by muscle weakness, wasting, and contractures in young boys (Wong, Hockenberry, & Wilson
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When parents are informed that their child has been diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, they become overwhelmed and saddened for their loved one. Lots of questions may arise: What will my child’s life be like? How can my child receive the best care? Did I cause this to happen? Parents should be put at ease regarding all concerns and educated on the disease process to prevent a caregiver role strain. Parents should be encouraged to be involved in making decisions about their child’s care because they will play a major in caring for their child. Since there is no cure, supportive care is the treatment of choice. A range of treatments can help with the physical disabilities and problems that may develop such as lordosis, respiratory or cardiac failure. Treatments can

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