Child/Teen Health History

Question 1

How should you examine a young child?

Answer 1

• Examine child on the floor or with the child in a parent’s lap; let parent undress the child
• Use a reassuring voice throughout the examination
• Let the child see and touch exam tools
• Avoid asking permission to examine a body part, instead, ask the child which part of the body they would like you to examine first.
• Reassure parents that resistance to the examination is developmentally appropriate

Question 2

How should you examine an older child?

Answer 2

• Have children change with parents help
• Have opposite sex siblings leave and have the parent stay in the room
• Refer to the child by name
• Ask the child about their family structure
• Start the health history with the child and ask open-ended questions
• Ask the concerns of the child and family member

Question 3

What are some things to consider when taking a health history from a teenage patient?

Answer 3

• Ensure a comfortable and confidential environment
• Start with specific questions to build trust and rapport, then move to open-ended questions with teens
• Ask them if they have any other questions
• Establish confidentiality with the pt.
• Specific issues such as: puberty, growth, development, family and peer relationships, sexuality, healthy decision making, and high-risk behaviors.
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