Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: Registered Practical Nurse Care and Reporting

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic condition that causes steady, lifelong loss of muscle strength. It occurs almost only in boys and is usually recognised in the preschool years. The condition affects the muscles used for walking and lifting, the muscles used for breathing and coughing, and the heart muscle. Becker muscular dystrophy is related to DMD but begins later and worsens more slowly. In Canada, children with DMD are followed by a neuromuscular clinic, and much of their day-to-day care happens at home, at school, in community and respite settings, and on paediatric or complex continuing care units. The registered practical nurse (RPN) cares for clients whose condition is stable and predictable, gives routine medications, carries out the plan of care, collects data and reports changes to the registered nurse, nurse practitioner or physician. When the client becomes unstable or unpredictable, the RPN consults and care is transferred or shared according to the employer's policy and provincial practice standards.