Age Specific Care
Age-Specific Considerationsfor Pediatric Patients
Children are very special people…not just miniature adults!
As a child grows older and changes, they move through stages.
Everyone grows and develops in a similar way.
The stages are related to their age and therefore, share certain qualities at each stage.
Important! Even though children go through stages, everyone develops at his/her own RATE!
Every patient is an individual with his or her own…
Likes and dislikes Feelings, thoughts &
beliefs Limitations and abilities Life experiences
As caregivers, we must…
Know enough about the different stages of childhood development that we interact with the children in a way that is positive and helpful for them.
Understand that the hospitalized child requires sensitivity and special actions.
Infancy(Birth through 1 year)
Parental involvement when appropriate
Stay in infants line of vision Place familiar object with
baby (stuffed animal, etc.) Pacifier, talk softly, touch Cuddle, hug after procedure Adequately restrain Model desired behavior
(opening mouth)
Infancy
Stable, caring relationships Verbal, auditory, visual and tactile
stimulation Reduction and control of negative
stimuli Satisfaction through pleasurable
stimuli (sucking, stroking) Opportunities for motor
development and neuromuscular control
Recognition of the individuality of the infants responses
Appreciation of individual patterns Consistency in care Support, preparation and teaching
for parents
Toddlers(1 year – 3 years)
Continuing relationships with parents
Space for mobility and exploration
Consistency in daily routine Opportunity for play Continuity of familiar routines
of eating, toileting, and sleeping Acceptance of regression under
the stress of hospitalization Continued contact with security
objects
Toddlers
Opportunity to express independence
Detailed preparation for parents and brief preparation for the child
Reassurance and brief explanations of procedures or treatments
Toddlers
Involve child in procedure by allowing him/her to play with equipment when appropriate.
Use play; demonstrate on doll, stuffed animal
Consistency with daily routines Explain procedure in relation
to what child sees, hears, etc. Emphasize being still Let them know – “It’s okay to
cry” Give one direction at a time
Preschoolers_(3 years-6 years)
Identification of fears, misconceptions, fantasies, and offering appropriate support and clarification
Recognition of the importance of parental involvement
Opportunity for play and mobility
More detailed explanations and preparations for procedures
Recognition of individuality Continued contacts with
security objects
Preschoolers
Explain in simple terms Demonstrate procedure Allow to play with
equipment/dolls Encourage child to talk;
let them ask questions to clarify
Tell them “this is not punishment”- “you haven’t done anything wrong”
School Age(6 years-12 years)
Use of intellectualization as a coping mechanism
More detailed preparation and explanation of procedures
Increased participation in self care and treatment
Continuation of school and age-appropriate educational activities
Opportunity to play and continue with interests and hobbies
Involvement with peers Continuing need for parents’
presence
School Age
Explain using correct terms Explain reasons – use simple
diagrams Allow to ask questions Prepare in advance Tell what is expected Suggest breathing, counting,
etc. Include in decision (where to
get injection, etc.) Encourage participation Provide privacy
Adolescents(12 years-19 years)
Contact and involvement with peers
Opportunities for increasing independence and responsibility
Recognition of concerns about body image
Need for privacy Continuation of activities such
as schooling, music, telephoning, eating and sleeping patterns
Adolescents
Detailed preparation and explanations
Opportunity to talk about concerns with staff and peers
Appropriate parental involvement
Adolescents
Explain and give reasons Encourage questions Provide privacy Discuss “after effects”- scars,
etc. Involve in decision making
and planning Accept regression and
resentment of authority
Adults to age 64 years
Involve these patients in their care, treatment, diagnosis, and procedures
Family support and visitors are necessary to their improvement\
Allow them to verbalize fears, anxiety, and concerns related to their care
Geriatrics 65 +
It is crucial to maintain a safe environment for these patients (side rails up, falls prevention, mobility needs, and communication)
Prior to performing any treatments or procedures, explain fully to the patient and allow time for questions
Provide for sensory losses such as visual impairment and hearing loss
Involve the family in the patients care and decision making
In summary…
Know developmental levels and stages.
Keep in mind the importance of family-centered care
Remember to address both the physical and emotional needs of the patient.