In caring for cerebral palsy patients, you should not assume intellectual disability. Which statement is correct?

• A. Intellectual disability should be assumed in most cerebral palsy patients.
• B. Intellectual disability should not be assumed; communicate normally and with respect.
• C. Speech impairment is the only concern.
• D. All CP patients have normal cognition.

Answer: (B)

Cerebral palsy affects movement and coordination, not automatically a person’s intelligence. The important idea here is to treat each patient as an individual and avoid assuming cognitive limitations based solely on CP. Communicate normally and with respect, addressing the person directly, and involve them in conversations and decisions to the extent possible. If speech or language challenges are present, use appropriate supports (like alternative communication methods or interpreters) without implying any cognitive deficit.

Why this approach fits best: it centers the patient’s autonomy and confirms that cognitive ability can range from average to impaired, independent of motor disability. It also avoids the errors of assuming disability in most CP patients, insisting all CP patients have normal cognition, or limiting concerns to speech alone. In practice, assess understanding, ask questions directly to the patient when appropriate, and provide accommodations to support communication and decision-making without diminishing dignity.