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Assisting in Pediatrics Chapter 42 Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 1 Learning Objectives Define, spell, and pronounce the terms listed in the vocabulary. Apply critical thinking skills in performing patient assessment and care. Describe childhood growth patterns. Summarize the important features of the Denver II Developmental Screening Test. Identify four different growth and development theories. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 2 Learning Objectives Explain common pediatric gastrointestinal disorders and their signs, symptoms, and treatments. Classify disorders of the respiratory system in children. Distinguish among pediatric infectious diseases. Recognize the etiologic factors and signs and symptoms of the two primary pediatric inherited disorders. Summarize CDC-recommended immunizations for children. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 3 Learning Objectives Demonstrate how to document and maintain accurate immunization records. Compare and contrast a well-child and a sick-child examination. Outline the medical assistant’s role in a pediatric examination. Measure the circumference of an infant’s head. Obtain accurate length and weight measurements, and plot pediatric growth patterns. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 4 Learning Objectives Accurately measure pediatric vital signs including vision screening. Correctly apply a pediatric urine collection device. Specify child safety guidelines for injury prevention and management of suspected child abuse. Describe the characteristics and needs of the adolescent patient. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 5 Normal Growth and Development Growth—measurable changes such as height and weight. Development—maturing in motor, mental, and language. Compare the child’s physical, intellectual, and social levels with national standards to determine if the child’s maturation is age appropriate. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 6 Growth Patterns Infant’s birth weight should double by 6 months of age and triple by 1 year, with length increasing by 50%. By age 2 years the child is at 50% of his or her adult height. By 4 years the child has doubled his or her birth length. Child has a growth spurt around age 12 years heading into adolescence. When the growth spurt ends the child has reached sexual maturity with the onset of menstruation in females and sperm in the semen for males. Skeletal growth is completed with fusion of the epiphyseal plates. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 7 Therapeutic Approaches for Infants Crying is normal; use distraction to help Parent should hold infant if possible Involve the parent as much as possible Place a familiar object near the infant Making strange starts around 8 months; do not take rejection personally Do not restrain infant any more than necessary Encourage caregiver to comfort child after procedures Unpleasant procedures are associated with objects; offer favorite toy afterward for comfort Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 8 Therapeutic Approaches for Toddlers and Preschoolers Often fear doctor visits; ignore temper tantrums and negative behavior Praise child as much as possible Perform unpleasant procedures as quickly as possible Keep as much clothing on as possible for security and comfort Use words the child is familiar with, and avoid those that they could misinterpret Explain procedures as the child would sense them Allow the child to handle equipment when possible Do not use the child’s favorite doll or stuffed animal to demonstrate; the child may believe the toy feels pain. Explain procedures to the parents away from the child when possible Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 9 Therapeutic Approaches for School-Aged Children Allow choices when possible Parent should be present during examinations Remove only as much clothing as needed Explain procedures in concrete terms; use pictures and diagrams Give child time to ask questions Children are often curious and cooperative if they know what is expected Address the conversation to the child; involve the child in decision making as much as possible Provide privacy Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 10 Therapeutic Approaches for Adolescents Adolescent is self-conscious and strongly influenced by peers Privacy is very important Address how a procedure might affect appearance Do not be judgmental; listen without condemning Encourage teens to verbalize concerns and fears May regress to more childish behaviors when sick Teens want to be treated like adults; want to know what is being done and why Encourage teens to see physician without parents Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 11 Critical Thinking Application What would be the best way to deal with the following patient situations? A crying 3-month-old baby being seen today for a well-child visit A 10-month-old baby with otitis media A 2-year-old child who has to have a wound dressing changed A 5-year-old child ordered vision and hearing screening An 8-year-old child ordered a throat culture A 12-year-old child ordered a penicillin injection in the dorsogluteal site A 15-year-old female patient with complaints of abdominal pain who is accompanied by her mother Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 12 Denver II Developmental Screening A standardized evaluation tool that should be done at 3 to 4 months, again at 10 months, again at 3 years. If results are abnormal, child should be tested by professionals. Assesses: Gross motor skills—standing, kicking, running, balance Language—evaluate word comprehension, ability to follow commands, counting Fine motor adaptive skills—reaching, grasping, piling blocks, drawing Personal skills—playing games, using utensils, dressing Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 13 Developmental Stages Occurs rapidly through infancy; by age 3 years there is increased autonomy; vocabulary of up to 900 words. Preschool—increasingly independent, initiates activities; has mastered gross motor activities; forms complete sentences; will take all statements literally; needs to work on social skills such as sharing. School-age—perfected fine-motor skills; intellectual skills developing; developing sense of self-worth; testing social skills away from the family. Adolescent—working at adult identity through experimentation; peers most important influence; risk-taking behaviors common. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 14 Pediatric Examination Guidelines: Infant and Toddler Have a “fun” basket of distracters available. If giving rewards, give them to all children. Offer the choice of whether the parent is present. Make sure child is in a safe position and environment at all times. Tell child when the procedure is done. Have extra supplies handy just in case more are needed or originals are contaminated. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 15 Examination Guidelines: School-Aged Child Determine knowledge about terminology and procedures. Allow child time to ask questions. Prepare child for the procedure. Teach simple relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and focusing on something fun. Give the child the responsibility for simple tasks—helping take off a bandage or picking out a new one, choosing which leg gets the injections, etc. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 16 Examination Guidelines: Adolescent Give child as much control as possible. Let child decide if parent will be present. Explain medications, procedures, diagnostic studies so child understands. Make sure child understands if the procedure will affect appearance and how. If procedure will produce a scar, discuss how scar formation can be minimized. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 17 General Guidelines Use older siblings when possible. Allow the child to handle equipment when possible. Use games to get cooperation—Simon Says, drawing on examination table paper, etc. Proceed from the least to the most invasive or painful procedure. Talk through the procedure to both child and parent. Allow choices for the older child. Praise and give rewards. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 18 Environmental Guidelines Never turn away from a child who is on the examination table. Safeguard the examination and waiting rooms. No medications in the room. Keep equipment secured behind protected cupboards. Warn against climbing on furniture and using the physician’s wheeled chair. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 19 Developmental Theories: Table 42-1 Sigmund Freud Erik Erikson Unconscious mind, id, ego, and superego Trust versus mistrust; autonomy versus shame and doubt; initiative versus guilt; industry versus inferiority; identity versus role confusion Piaget’s developmental theory Sensorimotor stage, preoperational stage, concrete operational stage, formal operational stage Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 20 Developmental Theories Kohlberg Preconventional morality Conventional level Postconventional level Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 21 Pediatric Diseases and Disorders: Gastrointestinal Disorders Colic Condition occurring in an infant between 2 weeks and 4 months of age with crying episodes that occur at least three times a week for greater than 3 hours a day and lasting 3 weeks. The infant draws up the legs, clenches the fists, and cries inconsolably. Diarrhea Caused by variety of microorganisms or allergies. Diagnosed when the child has two or more watery or apparently abnormal stools within a 24-hour period. Dehydration. Fluids, BRAT diet, antidiarrheal medications. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 22 Failure to Thrive An infant or young child whose weight is consistently below the third percentile on standardized growth charts or one who is 20% below the ideal body weight for length. Physical, mental, and social skills are also delayed. Accurately document weight, height, and head circumference. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 23 Obesity Plot the child’s BMI-for-age. It is estimated that more than 30% of school-aged children are overweight, and almost 20% are considered obese. Family history of obesity, inactivity, high-calorie diets, stress, endocrine or metabolic disorders. At risk for developing asthma, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, hypercholesterolemia, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension. Psychosocial impact. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 24 Respiratory Disorders Common cold or infectious rhinitis Signs include nasal congestion, low-grade fever, and general malaise. Self-limiting. Secondary infections. Otitis media Infection or inflammation of the middle ear. Signs and symptoms: inflammation of the middle ear, fluid buildup, crying, tugging at the ear, fever, irritable, and have decreased hearing in the affected ear. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 25 Otitis Media Serous otitis media. From Swartz MH: Textbook of physical diagnosis, ed 5, Philadelphia, 2006, Saunders; Suppurative otitis media. Courtesy Dr. Richard A. Buckingham and Dr. George E. Shambaugh, Jr. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 26 Otitis Media Treatment Traditionally treated with antibiotics If viral infection antibiotics will not help Recommendations have changed because of antibiotic-resistance concerns: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain or fever Delay antibiotics for 48 to 72 hours Children 6 to 24 months old without improvement in 24 hours or children older than 24 months in 72 hours prescribed antibiotics Medication ordered for 5 days Myringotomy for repeat infections Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 27 Respiratory Disorders Croup Viral inflammation of the larynx and the trachea just beneath it that causes edema and spasm of the vocal cords Bronchiolitis Viral infection of the small bronchi and bronchioles that usually affects children under 3 years of age Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 28 Asthma Bronchospasm and inflammation. Many factors can trigger an asthma attack. Signs and symptoms: nonproductive cough, expiratory wheeze, shortness of breath, difficulty speaking, tightness or pressure in the chest. Treatment: inhaled corticosteroids, rescue bronchodilators, and oral medications. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 29 Influenza Acute, highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract. Usual treatment for influenza is bed rest, increased fluids, and a nonaspirin analgesic to reduce fever and relieve discomfort. Some drugs can shorten the duration of the flu but must be taken at onset of symptoms Inhaled Relenza and oral oseltamivir (Tamiflu) Antibiotics are prescribed only if there is a secondary bacterial infection Flu vaccines for prevention Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 30 Conjunctivitis Highly contagious Caused by bacterial or viral infection Produces white or yellowish pus Health teaching for caregivers: Use good hand sanitization practices and hygiene Do not share towels or any other item Disinfect any contaminated articles Should be treated for at least 24 hours before returning to day care or school Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 31 Tonsillitis Tonsillitis Usually caused by Streptococcus A Tonsils appear enlarged and inflamed and may be covered with pustules Treatment – bed rest, liquid to soft diet, analgesic throat spray, and oral antibiotics Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 32 Fifth Disease Erythema infectious, parvovirus infection, or slapped cheek disease Symptoms – mild fever, general malaise, flushed cheeks, lacy rash on trunk, arms, and legs Typically recover without any serious consequences Pregnant women – increased risk of miscarriage and fetal anemia Spread through direct contact Most contagious before onset of rash Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 33 Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease Caused by coxsackievirus Seen most often in day care settings Symptoms – fever; sore throat; painful red blisters on the tongue, mouth, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet; headache; anorexia, and irritability Dehydration can occur – stop eating and drinking because of painful sores in the mouth Antibiotic therapy is not helpful so the disease must run its course To prevent spread wash hands thoroughly, especially after diaper changes, and disinfect shared items Should be kept out of day care or school until fever is gone and mouth sores healed Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 34 Varicella (Chicken Pox) Caused by a herpesvirus group; transmitted by direct or indirect droplets from the respiratory tract; incubation period is 14 to 21 days After infection the virus migrates to a dermatome and may cause “shingles” or herpes zoster Varicella virus vaccine, Varivax – two doses – first between 12 and 15 months; second between 4 and 6 years Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 35 Meningitis Inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord Viral meningitis – usually mild; clears up on its own within 10 to 14 days Fungal meningitis – serious for AIDS patients Bacterial meningitis – most serious types Neisseria meningitis – meningococcal meningitis Streptococcus pneumoniae Haemophilus influenzae – Hib vaccine Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 36 Reye’s Syndrome Linked to the use of aspirin during a viral illness Causes liver and brain involvement Signs and symptoms: may progress through five stages: restlessness, vomiting, liver dysfunction, elevated respiratory rate, hyperactive reflexes, coma, seizures, respiratory arrest, and death Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 37 Critical Thinking Application A father of a 10-year-old girl calls this morning concerned about his daughter’s symptoms. She has a sore throat, fever, and bright red cheeks. He wants to give her aspirin for the fever. What advice should Susie give the father? What questions should she ask to determine the seriousness of the child’s problem? Should she list this call on the physician's call back list? Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 38 Inherited Disorders Cystic fibrosis Autosomal recessive genetic disorder. Lungs and pancreas are primarily affected, causing a buildup of abnormally thick secretions. Signs and symptoms: salty taste to the skin, steatorrhea, abdominal distention, failure to thrive, chronic cough, and frequent respiratory infections. Diagnosis – Sweat test reveals elevated chlorine level Treatment – prevent bronchial obstruction with chest percussion, bronchodilators, antibiotics for signs of infection, and Pulmozyme; pancreatic enzymes to improve digestion and absorption of nutrients Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 39 Duchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy X-linked genetic disease that causes progressive muscle degeneration Usually develops before age 5 years, with muscular weakness, frequent falls, waddling gait, possible swallowing problems, and difficulty climbing stairs Diagnosis – CPK level, electromyography, and muscle biopsy Respiratory insufficiency and infections are common because of involvement of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles required for breathing Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 40 Autism Autism screening recommended for all children by age 2 years Three to six children out of every 1,000 are diagnosed with autism; four times more common in male children Cause unknown; believed due to a combination of genetic errors and environmental factors, perhaps a problem with fetal brain development Extensive studies have failed to show link with vaccinations Children have impaired social interaction, do not respond to their name, avoid eye contact, show limited interest in their surroundings, rarely communicate with others, display repetitive movements or mannerisms such as rocking or twirling, may have self-abusive behaviors Treatment – coordinated educational and behavioral interventions Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 41 Guidelines for Childhood Immunizations Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 42 Vaccine Information Sheets VIS provides information about risks and benefits of each vaccine. Parent given most current VIS before vaccine administered Documentation – date VIS given and publication date of the VIS Most current VIS forms available through state health department or refer CDC site at www.cdc.gov/nip/publications/VIS/default.htm Informed consent must be signed before immunizations are given Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 43 Vaccine Information Sheets Documentation – date administered, vaccine manufacturer, manufacturer’s lot number, type of vaccine, exact site of injection, side effects, name and title of person administering, and facility address Complete parent’s immunization booklet each time child receives vaccination Vaccine vials must be handled and stored properly Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 44 Checklist for Safe Vaccine Handling and Storage One person in charge of handling and storage of vaccines Vaccine inventory log maintained that includes the following: Vaccine name, number of doses, and date received Condition of vaccine on arrival Vaccine manufacturer, lot number, and expiration date Full-size refrigerator for vaccine storage with separate freezer compartment door Vaccine refrigerator used for food or drinks Store vaccines in middle of refrigerator; NOT on door Use vials with nearest expiration date first Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 45 Checklist for Safe Vaccine Handling and Storage Sign posted identifying which vaccines should be stored in either the refrigerator or freezer Thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer; refrigerator temperature maintained at 35–46ºF (2–8ºC) and freezer at +5ºF (–15ºC) or colder Containers of water kept in refrigerator and ice packs in freezer to help maintain cold temperatures Maintain a temperature log “Do Not Unplug” sign next to refrigerator’s electrical outlet Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 46 Critical Thinking Application Susie will be administering pediatric immunizations during well-baby visits scheduled for today. To prepare for this responsibility, Susie looked up the primary vaccinations, their routes of administration, contraindications, and possible side effects. The first child is here for her 4-month checkup. What immunizations should the child receive and how should they be administered? The baby’s father asks if she will get sick from the vaccines. What should Susie tell him? What does Susie need to do to meet the requirements of the national childhood vaccine injury act? Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 47 Apgar Score Newborn evaluation of well-being done at 1 minute and at 5 minutes after birth evaluates the following, with a potential score of 2 points for each item for a possible total of 10 points. Refer to Table 42-4. Heart rate Respiratory effort Muscle tone Reflex irritability Color or appearance Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 48 Well-Child Visits The frequency of well-child visits varies with the physician and the community. 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 8 weeks, 4 months, 6 months, 12 months, 18 months, 2 years, 5 years, 10 years, and 15 years Visits focus on maintaining the health of the child through basic system examinations, immunizations, and upgrading of the child’s medical history record. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 49 Sick-Child Visits Appointments are as needed. Some criteria to consider when conducting telephone screening include: If the child is young (less than 2 years old) and the parent reports frequent cycles of crying, lethargy, vomiting longer than 24 hours, diarrhea (more than six stools in the last 12 hours), or fever of 101°F (38.5°C) or higher, it is best to see the child right away. He or she cannot verbalize associated pain or problems. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 50 Medical Assistant’s Role in Pediatric Procedures Assisting the pediatrician with examinations Upgrading patient histories Performing ordered screening tests such as vision, hearing, urinalysis, and hemoglobin checks Administering immunizations Measuring and weighing children as needed Providing patient and caregiver support Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 51 Measurement The medical assistant should record the child’s length or height, weight, and head circumference on growth charts so the physician can compare the child’s measurement statistics with national standards. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 52 Assisting with the Examination: Pediatric Weight The dose of medication prescribed is based on the child’s weight. Weight must be recorded in kilograms. Weigh child in pounds and divide number by 2.2. Infants should be weighed without a diaper. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 53 Temperature Temporal temperatures – fast, accurate (especially in infants) and noninvasive Tympanic temperature Axillary temperature Fast and accurate Dry axilla Leave thermometer in place until it beeps (will take longer) Rectal temperatures Fragile rectal tissue that could be punctured Feces holds heat Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 54 Pulse and Respirations Apical pulse until 3 years of age Pulse rate may increase with inspiration and decrease with expiration Listen to the pulse lateral to the left nipple Infants and young children are abdominal breathers Respiration rate decreases with age Newborn: 30–60 3 years: 20–40 10 years: 16–22 16 years: 15–20 Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 55 Blood Pressure Use correct size of cuff Center the bladder over the brachial artery Increases with age Systolic • 1–7 years: age + 90 • 8–18 years: 2 × age + 83 Diastolic • 1–5 years: 56 • 6–18 years: age + 52 Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 56 Urine Collection Devices: Procedure 42-5 Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 57 Injury Prevention The primary causes of childhood injuries include motor vehicle accidents, drowning, burns, falls, poisoning, aspiration with airway obstruction, and firearm accidents. It is the medical assistant’s responsibility to make sure that the ambulatory care environment is safe and parents are educated about potential hazards. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 58 Critical Thinking Application The office manager asked Susie if she would check the entire office for potential child safety issues. After inspecting the facility, Susie is concerned about some safety issues, so she decides to create a checklist for future use. What precautions or safety features should she include? Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 59 Adolescent Patient Teens have rapid growth spurts and the development of secondary sexual characteristics. Health examinations – height and weight; diet and exercise routines; STD screening and Pap tests if female adolescents are sexually active with HPV screening; review of vaccination history with booster administration as indicated; assessment of high-risk behaviors such as substance abuse and sexual behavior. Health problems most frequently seen in adolescent patients include eating disorders (anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa), obesity, and injury-related problems. Accidents are the leading cause of death and injury. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 60 Suicide Third leading cause of adolescent death Signs of depression include headaches, abdominal discomfort, anorexia, fatigue, aggressiveness, drug or alcohol abuse, and sexual promiscuity Verbal statements that hint at the adolescent’s intention to commit suicide; talking about dying Actions – giving away prized objects, withdrawing from social groups, sudden changes in normal behavior patterns, or writing a suicide note Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 61 Child Abuse The federal Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act states that all threats to a child’s physical and/or mental welfare must be reported. If the medical assistant suspects that a child is a victim of abuse, he or she should consult with the pediatrician immediately, before the patient is seen. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 62 Signs of Abuse Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 63 Parent Education Topics Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 64 Child Safety Guidelines Position healthy full-term infants on the back or side to sleep. Stairs should be carpeted and protected with nonaccordion gates. Install and maintain smoke detectors on each floor and near sleeping areas. Develop and practice a plan of escape in the event of a fire. Put a self-latching lock on basement stairs. Store dangerous products out of reach (including medicines and vitamins), in cabinets with locks, and in their original containers. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 65 Child Safety Guidelines Keep potentially harmful plants out of reach. Post the numbers of the Poison Control Center and the child’s physician by all phones. Teach children to call 911 as soon as possible. Regularly inspect toys for sharp or removable parts. Use an approved car seat that is appropriate for the child’s age every time the child is in the car, and make certain it is properly installed. Follow guidelines for placing children in the front seat of motor vehicles. Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 66 Child Safety Guidelines Parents should use seat belts Wear properly fitting, approved helmets when biking and pads when skateboarding If firearms are in the home, store them unloaded, with the ammunition stored separately, and in a locked container If the child has access to a swimming pool, make certain it is fenced, with self-locking gates All adults and older children should learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) Copyright © 2011, 2007, 2003, 1999 by Saunders, an imprint of Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 67