Special Needs Children Flashcards
Children w/ Special Needs
those who have or are at risk for a chronic physical development, behavioral or emotional condition beyond needs generally required by children
-may have terminal illness
Resources or services that might be needed?
- prescription meds
- medical care
- mental health/education services
- physical, occupational, or speech therapy
- financial assistance
- family support
Impact on Infant
may fail to develop a sense of trust and bonding
Impact on Toddler
may have difficulty developing autonomy
Impact on Preschooler
may have difficulty achieving sense of initiative
Impact on School Age
may have difficulty achieving industry
Impact on Adolescents
may have difficulty forming a sense of identity
Impact of Special Needs Child on the Family
- multitude of emotions and changes in their lives
- may be overwhelmed w/ burdens of continual care
- may experience fear, ager, sadness, guilt, frustration, or resentment
Stressors on Daily Life
- housing situation changes
- sleep affected
- carrying out basic ADL’s affected
- medical/technical care must be incorporated
- family identity and employment may be altered
- extended burden may affect health of caregiver
Transition Times for Special Needs Child
- initial diagnosis or change in prognosis
- increased symptoms
- when child moves settings
- during parent’s absence
- during periods of developmental change
Risk Factors for Vulnerable Child Syndrome
- preterm birth
- congenital anomaly
- newborn jaundice
- handicapping condition
- accident or illness the child was not expected to recover from
- crying/feeding problems in the first 5 yrs
Focus of Nursing Management
- case management and advocacy
- screening and ongoing assessment of child
- provision of home care
- education and support
- referral for resources
Promoting Home Care for the Technology Dependent Child
- provide early discharge planning
- provide care and care coordination at home
- provide ongoing follow-ups and routine visits
- assess growth and development
Long-term Risks for Premature Infant
- cognitive delays
- cerebral palsy
- attention deficit disorder
- learning disabilities
- difficulty w/ socialization
- vulnerable child syndrome
- alterations in muscle tone
Organic Causes of Failure to Thrive
- inability to suck/swallow correctly
- malabsorption
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- alterations in metabolism and nutrient needs associated w/ chronic illness
