Health Problems of the School-Age Child Flashcards
Describe Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is a chronic neurobehavioral disorder characterized by inappropriate levels of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity.
Cause is unclear but thought to be a potential interplay between genetic, environmental, and biological factors.
Family studies have consistently indicated a strong familial genetic contribution
ADH more common in
Boys are more than twice as likely as girls to be diagnosis with ADHD.
Recent literature indicates that girls are under-diagnosed and may be related to girls having the symptoms of inattention compared to boys having hyperactivity and impulsivity
Onset and diagnosis of ADHD
Typical onset before age 7 years
Diagnosis is based on observation of behavioral symptoms
What is used to screen ADHD?
Vanderbilt Assessment used to screen for ADHD (parents and teachers)
Management of ADHD
-Behavioral therapy - positive reinforcement
-Structure (e.g., classroom, home)
-Psychotherapy
-Medication
Medications for ADHD
symptoms of stimulants
Non-Stimulant (e.g., Straterra)
Stimulants
-Dexedrine (Dextroamphetamine)
-Adderall (Dextroamphetamine-amphetamine)
-Ritalin (Methylphenidate)
-Side effects of stimulants
Insomnia, anorexia and weight loss, hypertension, growth suppression.
Review suicide in school-aged child including prevalence
Suicide is the second leading cause of death for children, adolescents,
and young adults15-24 years of age.
Risk factors for suicide in school aged children
-History of Depression
-Family history of suicide attempts
-Exposure to violence
-Impulsivity
-Access to firearms
-Bullying
-Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
-Experienced an acute loss or rejection
-Lack of access to mental health care
Impact of COVID 19
-Mental health conditions have heightened during the COVID-19 pandemic
-From Feb to March 2021, there was an increase of 50% in girls aged 12 to 17 that attempted suicide.
