ATI Custom Pediatric exam 1 Related

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A child who has spina bifida occulta

A nurse is collecting data from a child who has spina bifida occulta. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

  • A. Flaccid paralysis of lower extremities
  • B. Hip dislocation
  • C. Hydrocephalus
  • D. Dimple in sacral area
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Dimple in sacral area. In spina bifida occulta, there is a small gap in the spine but no protrusion of the spinal cord or meninges. A dimple in the sacral area is a common physical finding. Flaccid paralysis of lower extremities (A) is more characteristic of myelomeningocele, not occulta. Hip dislocation (B) is not typically associated with spina bifida occulta. Hydrocephalus (C) is more commonly seen with myelomeningocele as well. The presence of a dimple in the sacral area is a key indicator of spina bifida occulta due to the incomplete closure of the spinal column.