How does a child with intussusception typically position their body during pain episodes?

• A. Standing
• B. Lying on back with legs extended
• C. Sitting with legs crossed
• D. Draws knees to chest and cries

Answer: (D)

Intussusception causes sudden, severe cramp-like abdominal pain that makes the child instinctively curl up. Bringing the knees to the chest and crying is the typical position during these painful episodes, as it helps reduce tension in the abdomen and provides some comfort during the cramping. Standing or lying flat doesn’t address the cramp, and sitting with legs crossed isn’t the common response to this type of pain. So, drawing the knees in and crying best reflects how a child usually behaves during the painful episodes.