Chapter 34: Impact of a Chronic Condition on Children

Question 1

Chronic Condition

Answer 1

health situation that persists over time, usually longer than 3 months, or one in which recovery progresses slowly
>physical, psychological, or cognitive impairment that places limitations on the child’s daily activities and requires ongoing care
>can be a congenital defect or a problem that occurs during fetal development

Question 2

Impact of a Chronic Condition

Answer 2

• require use of adaptive devices (wheelchairs, walkers, braces, and crutches)
• frequent visits to the hospital or clinic visits can create stress because home routines are disrupted and more demands are placed on the caregivers, who now must balance time between the sick child in the hospital and other responsibilities such as caring for older children as well as maintaining employment
• can experience social, financial, physical, and psychological strain
• child can feel overwhelmed and unable to deal with the situation depending on age, coping mechanisms, and situation