Infant Motor Development Delay

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Introduction

Infant motor development delay describes a delay in the development of motor skills seen in infants. Nursing Diagnosis (NDx) is the foundation for providing individualized nursing care and reflects the knowledge base of nursing practice. In particular, NDx describes the problem in terms of the person’s ability to achieve certain outcomes.

Nursing Diagnosis Definition

The NANDA definition of Motor Development Delay in Infants is: “Delayed achievement of developmental milestones resulting in an inability to perform movement patterns normally acquired by a certain age”

Defining Characteristics (Subjective)

• Delay in achieving developmental milestones
• Loss of motor abilities earlier achieved
• Posture abnormalities
• Sleep disturbances
• Pain with movement

Defining Characteristics (Objective)

• Delay or lack of normally expected motor abilities
• Inability to sit, crawl, pull up
• Delayed weight bearing
• Delays in fine or gross motor skills
• Abnormal muscle tone

Related Factors

• Prematurity
• Congenital anomalies
• Infections
• Metabolic disturbances
• Chronic illness
• Presence of neurological injury
• Environmental deprivation
• Stressful events
• Sensory deficits
• Inadequate nutrition/hydration
• Pain

Risk Population

The population at risk for Infant Motor Development Delay includes infants with congenital anomalies, premature infants, infants born to mothers exposed to toxins during pregnancy, and infants who are globally-delayed. Additionally, infants with neurologic dysfunction, eye-hand coordination difficulties, and coordination problems are at an increased risk of motor development delays.

Associated Problems

Individuals experiencing Motor Development Delay may have other associated problems, such as feeding problems, impaired communication, or delays in cognitive or motor functioning.

Suggestions for Use

Nurses can use Nursing Diagnosis to monitor patient progress and intervene when necessary. By taking into account the patient’s physical, psychological, and social needs, nurses can make appropriate decisions regarding treatment and provide individualized care.

Suggested Alternative NANDAs

In addition to Infant Motor Development Delay, alternative nursing diagnoses include: Readiness for Enhanced Motor Development, Impaired Physical Mobility, Impaired Movement, Imbalanced Nutrition, and Activity Intolerance.

Usage Tips

When using NANDA Nursing Diagnoses, it is important to remember to focus on the patient’s individual strengths and weaknesses, as well as his or her environment, social supports, and lifestyle when crafting a plan of care.

NOC Results

• Mobility: Physical
• Strength Performance
• Functional Mobility
• Muscle Performance
• Self-Care: Activities of Daily Living

NIC Interventions

• Provide Physical Exercise Programs
• Encourage Functional Self-Care Activity
• Instruct in Techniques of Weight Shifting
• Teach Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
• Reinforce Reading Techniques/Comprehension
• Assist with Transfer and Mobility Skills

Conclusion and FAQs

Nursing Diagnosis can be used to assess and monitor the development of individuals with Infant Motor Development Delay. Nurses must carefully and continually assess patient development, evaluating risk factors and associated problems, in order to craft an appropriate plan of care. The ultimate goal is to provide individualized nursing care that promotes optimal development.