TRANSITION SERIES Topics for the Advanced EMT CHAPTER Life Span Development 10

Introduction Certain developmental benchmarks should be reached by individuals at common ages. It is easier to understand disturbances to a patient's psychological and/or physiological state if you first know what is normal for him.

Developmental Stage and Age The Advanced EMT must be familiar with age brackets and the stages of development.

Stages of Development

Developmental Milestones for Infants

Neonates and Infants –Assessment considerations  Fontanels  Ventilation assessment  Maintain warmth  Consistent crying  Provide emotional control  Smile to help reassure

Modify your approach to fit the patient’s stage of development.

Developmental Milestones of Toddlers

Developmental Milestones of Preschoolers

Toddlers and Preschoolers –Assessment considerations  Speak softly  Let them touch things  Keep parent nearby  Praise child  Allow some control  Use toy to calm child

A young toddler begins to exhibit improved motor skills and problem-solving abilities.

School-Age Children –Developmental milestones  Continued physical growth  Can easily communicate  Understand pain, death  Develop concept of self

School-age children participate in a wide variety of activities and use their experiences to develop skills to solve problems.

School-Age Children (cont’d) School-Age Children –Assessment considerations  Misconceptions about end points of care  Speak using their terms and phrases  Explain all procedures first  Address child, but speak to parent also  Provide child with choices if possible

Adolescents Adolescents –Developmental milestones  Growth in spurts  Puberty occurs  Value privacy  Capable of decision making  Engage in risky behavior  Conflicts with family common  Concerned with self image

Adolescents (cont’d) Adolescents –Assessment considerations  Interview patient and parent, then assess just patient  Normal adult assessment format  Remain unbiased and nonjudgmental

Adolescents’ sense of identity and self-esteem are influenced by their body image and peer relationships. (© Monkey Business Images/Shutterstock)

Adulthood Adulthood –Early  Peak physical condition –Middle  Some body deterioration –Late  Incidence of disease high

Adulthood (cont’d) Adulthood –Assessment considerations  Speak in normal tone  Allow more time to answer questions  Do not assume there is mental or sensory decline  Show respect

Many older adults face new challenges, but the ability to learn and adjust continues throughout life.

Normal Vital Signs

Summary Understanding life span development is necessary whenever someone is involved in health care. The Advanced EMT can better appreciate what is wrong with the patient if he knows what “right” is supposed to be.