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. Respiratory

Kawasaki disease primarily affects the cardiovascular system rather than the respiratory system. While respiratory symptoms such as cough or congestion may occur in some cases, they are not the primary focus of the disease.

B. Gastrointestinal

Although gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea can occur in Kawasaki disease, they are not the primary system affected. Gastrointestinal symptoms are considered part of the systemic manifestations of the disease but do not define its primary pathology.

C. Cardiovascular

This is the correct answer. Kawasaki disease primarily affects the cardiovascular system. It is characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels, particularly the medium-sized arteries, including the coronary arteries. Coronary artery involvement can lead to coronary artery aneurysms and other cardiovascular complications, making the cardiovascular system the primary focus of the disease.

D. Integumentary

The integumentary system (skin) is not primarily affected by Kawasaki disease. While changes in the skin, such as a rash, may occur as part of the systemic manifestations of the disease, they are not the primary focus of Kawasaki disease.

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.