Age Specific Care

Age-Specific Considerations for Pediatric Patients

Children are very special people… not just miniature adults! As a child grows older and changes, they move through stages. Everyone grows and develops in a similar way. The stages are related to their age and therefore, share certain qualities at each stage.

Important! Even though children go through stages, everyone develops at his/her own RATE! Every patient is an individual with his or her own…  Likes and dislikes  Feelings, thoughts & beliefs  Limitations and abilities  Life experiences

As caregivers, we must… Know enough about the different stages of childhood development that we interact with the children in a way that is positive and helpful for them. Understand that the hospitalized child requires sensitivity and special actions.

Infancy (Birth through 1 year)  Parental involvement when appropriate  Stay in infants line of vision  Place familiar object with baby (stuffed animal, etc.)  Pacifier, talk softly, touch  Cuddle, hug after procedure  Adequately restrain  Model desired behavior (opening mouth)

Infancy  Stable, caring relationships  Verbal, auditory, visual and tactile stimulation  Reduction and control of negative stimuli  Satisfaction through pleasurable stimuli (sucking, stroking)  Opportunities for motor development and neuromuscular control  Recognition of the individuality of the infants responses  Appreciation of individual patterns  Consistency in care  Support, preparation and teaching for parents

Toddlers (1 year – 3 years)  Continuing relationships with parents  Space for mobility and exploration  Consistency in daily routine  Opportunity for play  Continuity of familiar routines of eating, toileting, and sleeping  Acceptance of regression under the stress of hospitalization  Continued contact with security objects

Toddlers  Opportunity to express independence  Detailed preparation for parents and brief preparation for the child  Reassurance and brief explanations of procedures or treatments

Toddlers  Involve child in procedure by allowing him/her to play with equipment when appropriate.  Use play; demonstrate on doll, stuffed animal  Consistency with daily routines  Explain procedure in relation to what child sees, hears, etc.  Emphasize being still  Let them know – “It’s okay to cry”  Give one direction at a time

Preschoolers _(3 years-6 years)  Identification of fears, misconceptions, fantasies, and offering appropriate support and clarification  Recognition of the importance of parental involvement  Opportunity for play and mobility  More detailed explanations and preparations for procedures  Recognition of individuality  Continued contacts with security objects

Preschoolers  Explain in simple terms  Demonstrate procedure  Allow to play with equipment/dolls  Encourage child to talk; let them ask questions to clarify  Tell them “this is not punishment”- “you haven’t done anything wrong”

School Age (6 years-12 years)  Use of intellectualization as a coping mechanism  More detailed preparation and explanation of procedures  Increased participation in self care and treatment  Continuation of school and age- appropriate educational activities  Opportunity to play and continue with interests and hobbies  Involvement with peers  Continuing need for parents’ presence

School Age  Explain using correct terms  Explain reasons – use simple diagrams  Allow to ask questions  Prepare in advance  Tell what is expected  Suggest breathing, counting, etc.  Include in decision (where to get injection, etc.)  Encourage participation  Provide privacy

Adolescents (12 years-19 years)  Contact and involvement with peers  Opportunities for increasing independence and responsibility  Recognition of concerns about body image  Need for privacy  Continuation of activities such as schooling, music, telephoning, eating and sleeping patterns

Adolescents  Detailed preparation and explanations  Opportunity to talk about concerns with staff and peers  Appropriate parental involvement

Adolescents  Explain and give reasons  Encourage questions  Provide privacy  Discuss “after effects”- scars, etc.  Involve in decision making and planning  Accept regression and resentment of authority

Adults to age 64 years  Involve these patients in their care, treatment, diagnosis, and procedures  Family support and visitors are necessary to their improvement\  Allow them to verbalize fears, anxiety, and concerns related to their care

Geriatrics 65 +  It is crucial to maintain a safe environment for these patients (side rails up, falls prevention, mobility needs, and communication)  Prior to performing any treatments or procedures, explain fully to the patient and allow time for questions  Provide for sensory losses such as visual impairment and hearing loss  Involve the family in the patients care and decision making

In summary…  Know developmental levels and stages.  Keep in mind the importance of family- centered care  Remember to address both the physical and emotional needs of the patient.