A nurse is collecting data from an infant who has developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

A. Inwardly turned foot on the affected side.

This finding is consistent with DDH. In infants with DDH, the affected leg may appear shortened and rotated inwardly due to hip instability or dislocation.

B. Lengthened thigh on the affected side.

This finding is not typically associated with DDH. In fact, the affected thigh may appear shortened rather than lengthened due to abnormal positioning of the hip joint.

C. Absent plantar reflexes.

Absent plantar reflexes are not directly related to DDH. Plantar reflexes assess the function of the spinal nerves in the lower extremities and are not typically affected by hip dysplasia.

D. Asymmetric thigh folds.

This finding is consistent with DDH. Asymmetric thigh folds, where one thigh appears fuller or has more skin folds compared to the other, can be indicative of hip dysplasia. The skin folds may be more prominent on the unaffected side due to the displacement of the femoral head on the affected side.

A. Flaccid paralysis of lower extremities:

Flaccid paralysis refers to a weakness or loss of muscle tone in the affected muscles, leading to decreased or absent movement. This finding is not typically associated with spina bifida occulta. Instead, it is more commonly seen in more severe forms of spina bifida, such as myelomeningocele, where there is significant involvement of the spinal cord and nerves.

B. Hip dislocation:

Hip dislocation can occur in individuals with myelomeningocele due to muscle weakness, abnormal muscle tone, and joint deformities associated with spinal cord defects. However, it is not typically associated with spina bifida occulta, which usually presents with less severe spinal cord involvement.

C. Hydrocephalus:

Hydrocephalus, characterized by the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain, is a common complication of myelomeningocele due to disturbances in the flow and absorption of cerebrospinal fluid caused by the spinal defect. It is less commonly associated with spina bifida occulta, which typically involves a less severe spinal cord defect.

D. Dimple in sacral area:

This is the correct choice. A dimple, patch of hair, or birthmark in the lower back or sacral area is a common finding in spina bifida occulta. It occurs due to the incomplete closure of the spinal column during fetal development, leading to a small defect in the vertebrae. This is often a subtle manifestation of spina bifida occulta and may not cause significant symptoms or functional impairment.