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Review
. 2025 Feb;114(2):292-298.
doi: 10.1111/apa.17458. Epub 2024 Oct 14.

Early identification and communication in cerebral palsy: Navigating a collaborative approach for neonatal follow-up programmes

Paige Terrien Church  1   2   3 , Rudaina Banihani  3   4 , Karen Thomas  5   6 , Maureen Luther  3 , Brenda Agnew  7 , Amber Makino  4   8   9 , Sophie Lam-Damji  8   9   10 , Darcy Fehlings  4   8   9
Affiliations
Review

Early identification and communication in cerebral palsy: Navigating a collaborative approach for neonatal follow-up programmes

Paige Terrien Church et al. Acta Paediatr. 2025 Feb.

Abstract

Aim: This article will provide a clinical case demonstrating the implementation of early identification and review the tools and findings and the diagnostic approach. We will review highlighted literature on the subject of communicating a diagnosis. While improved function is a critical goal, the process of communicating the diagnosis of CP can be challenging for both parents and providers. It aims to provide insights on the evidence supporting early identification and discusses strategies for effective communication of crucial information.

Methods: The article reviews the literature on communication of a diagnosis.

Results: Thirteen articles were identified relating to the communication of a diagnosis of CP and parent experience. We examine this evidence, leveraging the knowledge of an interdisciplinary team and incorporating feedback from parents.

Conclusion: Strategies for effective communication include engagement with families, community therapy teams and all medical providers. Consistent, individualised, collaborative communication is critical. Awareness of ableism and use of balanced, value-neutral terminology is recommended.

Keywords: Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination; Prechtl's General Movement Assessment; cerebral palsy; early identification; neonatal follow‐up; neurodevelopmental outcomes.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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