NURSING INTERVENTIONS TO PROMOTE SELF-CARE IN CEREBRAL PALSY: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Context: Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a non-progressive brain disorder causing motor impairments and related complications affecting health and development. Effective nursing care is essential to improve self-care skills in CP patients. Aim: To assess nurses’ knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) in managing CP to enhance self-care development in adolescents and adults, ultimately improving neonatal health outcomes in Pakistan. Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study involving 150 nurses assessed KAP regarding CP care and its impact on patients' self-care skills. Data analyzed correlations between nursing interventions and self-care improvements. Results: 85% correctly defined CP; 69% understood self-care interventions, revealing knowledge gaps. 82% believed CP patients could develop self-care with proper nursing support; 90% recognized nurses’ critical role. Nursing practices included assisting daily activities (90%), promoting mobility (87%), and family education (83%). Strong positive correlations (p < 0.001) were found between nursing interventions and patient self-care improvements. Conclusion: Nursing knowledge, attitudes, and practices significantly influence self-care development in CP patients. Enhancing nurse training can improve patient independence and quality of life, highlighting the critical role of nursing in CP management.