1. Intro to Paeds Flashcards
What are the physical differences between children and adults
Smaller but disproportionately different- head huge
This can affect BMI, not great for kids
How does a growth chart work?
50th centile- average height
The lines reflect standard deviations from the mean
2-98% normal
What are the physiological differences in children?
Less water content
Metabolic reserves
Surface area volumes
Faster pulse, resp rate, lower BP
More likely to get cold, dehydrated and hypoglycaemic
What is ketotic hypoglycaemia?
Condition that does not exist in adults but does exist in children
recurrent episodes of hypoglycemic symptoms with ketosis and, often, vomiting, in young children.
What is a key physiological difference in children?
Heart rate increases very easily to stop blood pressure increasing. Then all very suddenly things go wrong. This is due to strong adrenaline response
How is the immune system different in children?
What is a good tester of a good immune system?
Immune system is very good
Start with mother’s IgG antibodies
They die and then child gets a lot of infections from 4 moths to 5 years
If parents are worried ask if they’ve had chickenpox. Need a good immune system to get rid of chickenpox
What are the psychological differences in children
Terrible twos- two year old develop independence and aren’t compliant
Latent phase- 6-11, wonder years
Adolescent phase- treat them with lots of respect
What chronic conditions onset in childhood?
Asthma Autism Cerebral palsy Cycstic fonrosis Gastroschisis Spina bifida Hirschsprungs
Who delivers child health
General practice Emergency physicians Neonatologist Community paediatricians Orthopaedic surgeons Medical paediatrics Paediatric surgeons
What non NHS policies affect children?
Housing, education, environmental, law, transport
What is the theory of impaired development?
Fetuses and children sacrifice development of certain organs for others. This is why children with lower birth weights do worse
What are the main point of peads?
It’s okay to watch and wait
Chronic diseases can stem form childhood issues
