Caitlyn Cassidy, MD, FRCPC
St. Joseph’s Health Care London, London, ON
Jackie Chiang, MD, FRCPC
The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON
Respiratory complications are the leading cause of mortality in individuals with cerebral palsy (CP). This presentation will review the risk factors for respiratory compromise, including Gross Motor Function Classification system (GMFCS) level, aspiration and sleep-disordered breathing. In addition, proposed monitoring guidelines and interventions will be discussed such as sialorrhea management, airway clearance strategies and treatment of sleep-disordered breathing. Other comorbid conditions and psychosocial factors that may impact upon respiratory care will be explored. The presentation will highlight the importance of a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to care in order to reduce respiratory morbidity and mortality.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this presentation, attendees will be able to:
- Identify risk factors for developing respiratory complications in the setting of cerebral palsy;
- Describe interventions that may be applied to common respiratory issues in cerebral palsy and that may be used to reduce/prevent respiratory complications in this population;
- Identify comorbid medical conditions or psychosocial factors that may impact upon the respiratory and overall health of people with cerebral palsy; and
- Formulate a proactive approach to the respiratory care of individuals with cerebral palsy.
CanMEDS Roles Addressed: Collaborator, Communicator, Health Advocate, Medical Expert, Professional, Scholar
