Paediatric History from a parent

Question 1

During the introductions of a paediatric history, what must be established?

Answer 1

The patients name and age

Who is with the patient - parents? carers? others?

Rapport with the child

Question 2

What are the key areas to explore during a paediatric history taking?

Answer 2

Feeding - volume & frequency

Weight gain or loss

Vomiting

Fever

Number of wet nappies

Stools - consistency, colour

Unwell contacts - siblings been ill?

Question 3

What should be inquired about during PMH?

Answer 3

Any illnesses during gestation?

Any complications during birth - prematurity? low birth weight?

Any neonatal illnesses?

Any known medical conditions

Previous hospital visits?

Question 4

What are the additional areas that need to be explored in a paediatric history compared to a normal adult history?

Answer 4

Birth history

Feeding history - breast or bottle? Volume? Frequency?

Immunisations - up to date?

Developmental history - any problems delays? Can they walk, said their 1st words etc.?

Any illnesses in the family? Coeliacs? Illnesses at nursery/school etc.?

Parents social history - do they smoke, alcohol/drug problems, mental health problems?