Case Study Activities

Question 1

Outline some adjustments and factors a child-bearing family may experience when the baby is born?

Answer 1

• Changes in relationship (less attention and affection towards eachother)
• Increase in house hold duties
• Financial stress; one partner at work

Question 2

What are the similarities and differences between a paed and adult Neurological Assessment?

Answer 2

Similiarities;

• Both test limb strength
• Both assess pupils for size and reaction to light

Differences;

• Different criteria for GCS score, depending on age of the paediatric. Adults have standard criteria.
• in paeds Growth and development is measured; head circumference, shape, size and mobility. Quality of cry and vocalisation.
• Birthing experience and complications; traumatic birth or premature delivery.

Question 3

Explain the difference between child abuse and neglect

Answer 3

Child abuse; is the intentional maltreatment of a child that results in harm to the child. Can be physical, sexual or psychological

Child Neglect; failure to provide the basic necessities of life, negatively impacting on the childs safety, welfare and wellbeing. Basic necessities of life e.g. shelter, education, supervision, medical care, nutrition.

Question 4

Explain the impact poor communication can have on the therapeutic relationship in sensitive circumstances such as domestic violence.

Answer 4

People involved in sensitive circumstances generally experience difficulty in disclosing personal information.

Poor communication will lead to a lack of trust and respect within the relationship. The nurse will not be able to effectively gauge all the information needed, and therefore the patients needs wont be met.

Question 5

What is mandatory reporting?

Answer 5

The legislative requirement of health professionals to report suspected child abuse or neglect to government authorities to prevent the child from further harm.

Question 6

How does mandatory reporting benefit the health and well-being of children and families?

Answer 6

• In the case of unintentional neglect resulting from lack of finances, knowledge and resources, mandatory reporting can facilitate the provision or more services to the family
• Can prevent the risk for further harm to a child by making changes to their current circumstances until the situation is investigated
• Creates a child centered culture whereby abuse and neglect of vulnerable children is not tolerated.

Question 7

Under what circumstances can a minor provide consent to their own medical treatment?

Answer 7

If deemed to have capacity and understanding of the procedure, the risks and benefits a minor of 14 years of age can provide their own consent without parental permission

Question 8

Outline some communication strategies for ages 9-11 and 12-18.

Answer 8

• Be honest; children in these age groups are more aware of their surroundings. Being truthful increases trust in the relationship
• Use their name; makes the engagement more personal
• Ask open ended questions; allows for multiple responses and promotes a more detailed discussion
• Use humor and creativity
• Use technology and education games if required

Question 9

Outline communication strategies for the younger years (birth - 10)

Answer 9

• Use of pictures and visual resources; makes it easier for nurses to explain things and can improve a childs understanding of what is being asked or what is happenening
• Play Games; makes aspects of care more fun and less frightenining
• Get down on the childs level and use a loving tone; established a mutual relationship where the nurse is not ‘overpowering’ the child
• Follow the child’s lead and attend to their interests; the child will be more likely to communicate about their favourite toys or activities
• Imitate vocalisations or words; shows they were heard and understood. Increases the likelihood for future communication

Question 10

Outline some gross motor skills and sensory development of an infant (0-12).

Answer 10

Gross motor skills; sitting, crawling, rolling over, standing, begins taking a few steps

Sensory Development; Facial and object recognition, develops object permanence

Question 11

At what age does the cardiopulmonary system stabilize

Answer 11

15-30 months.

Question 12

At what age does lymphatic tissue increase and immunity improve?

Answer 12

Immunoglobulins and antibodies increase –> increased immunity

Question 13

At what age is brain growth complete?

Answer 13

9-11 years.

Question 14

What age does growth stop.

Answer 14

Growth stops at 12-18 years. Epiphyseal lines in long bones close.