Diagnosis

The way parents are given a diagnosis of hemiplegia or cerebral palsy is important. It may influence how they build up an ongoing relationship with their child and the team caring for their child, and moreover how they interact with those professionals. This section contains guidelines on giving a diagnosis.

• Communicating with parents
  An outline of some of the issues around giving a diagnosis of hemiplegia or cerebral palsy.
• Uncertainty of diagnosis
  There may be problems if the diagnosis cannot yet be established.
• Communicating with the child
  Children diagnosed with hemiplegia need straightforward information about their condition.
• Adjustment
  How parents typically adjust to the fact that their child has hemiplegia or cerebral palsy.
• Recommendations
  Best practice for giving a diagnosis of hemiplegia or cerebral palsy.