Topic 2: Health Assessment of the Toddler, Preschool, and School-Aged Child

The needs of the pediatric patient differ depending on age, as do the stages of development and the expected assessment findings for each stage. In a 500-750-word paper, examine the needs of a school-aged child between the ages of 5 and 12 years old and discuss the following:

1. Compare the physical assessments among school-aged children. Describe how you would modify assessment techniques to match the age and developmental stage of the child.
2. Choose a child between the ages of 5 and 12 years old. Identify the age of the child and describe the typical developmental stages of children that age.
3. Applying developmental theory based on Erickson, Piaget, or Kohlberg, explain how you would developmentally assess the child. Include how you would offer explanations during the assessment, strategies you would use to gain cooperation, and potential findings from the assessment.

Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not required.

SOLUTION

Physical assessment

Assessment is a significant component in the nursing practice in that it is required for planning and providing family and patient-centered care. However, when conducting the physical examination for children, it is important to consider the different techniques that are age appropriate. First, school-aged children tend to feel mature, but in the health care setting, it is significant to consider whether they want their parents around. A 5 years old child would want the parent around, but a 12 years old might decide that having the parent around is a limitation. The nurses can ask for the preference of the child. School going children also become conscious about their bodies, and thus, privacy becomes an