learning Objectives - Describe the management of behavioral disorders and common health problems of children Demonstrate skills in the prevention & implementation of medical & nursing management of behavioral disorders& common health problems.
Hours - 6
Teaching and Learning Activities - Lecture cum discussions Seminars
Assessment Methods - Short answers Objective type Essay type
Content of the chapter
a) Infancy :
– Failure to thrive
– Diarrhea & Vomiting
b) Childhood
– Communicable diseases
– Tonsillitis
– Otitis media
– Child abuse
– Breath holding spasms
– Enuresis, nail biting, thumb
sucking, somnambulism
– Protein Energy Malnutrition
– Helminthic infections
– Bites and stings
– Pica
– Tics
c) Adolescent
– Precocious puberty
– Gynecomastia
– Accident, sport injuries
– Obesity & anorexia nervosa
– Juvenile delinquency
Disorders and Health Problems of a Child
Children are vulnerable to various health problems due to growth, development, nutrition, environment, and psychosocial factors. Early identification and appropriate nursing care are essential to prevent complications.
a) Infancy (Birth – 1 Year)
1. Failure to Thrive (FTT)
Definition: Inadequate physical growth (poor weight gain) compared to age norms.
Causes:
- Inadequate nutrition
- Chronic illness
- Neglect or poor feeding practices
Signs & Symptoms:
- Low weight for age
- Delayed development
- Lethargy
Nursing Management:
- Nutritional assessment and counseling
- Growth monitoring
- Parent education
2. Diarrhea & Vomiting
Causes:
- Infections
- Improper feeding
- Contaminated food/water
Signs & Symptoms:
- Frequent loose stools
- Dehydration
- Weight loss
Nursing Management:
- ORS and IV fluids if needed
- Continued feeding and breastfeeding
- Hygiene education
b) Childhood (1–12 Years)
1. Communicable Diseases
Examples: Measles, mumps, chickenpox, diphtheria
Prevention:
- Immunization
- Early diagnosis
- Isolation when required
2. Tonsillitis
Cause: Bacterial or viral infection
Symptoms: Sore throat, fever, difficulty swallowing
Care: Antibiotics, warm saline gargles, rest
3. Otitis Media
Cause: Middle ear infection
Symptoms: Ear pain, fever, hearing difficulty
Care: Antibiotics, analgesics, follow-up
4. Child Abuse
Types: Physical, emotional, sexual, neglect
Signs:
- Injuries
- Fearful behavior
- Poor hygiene
Nursing Role:
- Early identification
- Reporting
- Counseling and protection
5. Breath-Holding Spells
Description: Child holds breath during crying or anger
Management: Reassurance, parental counseling
6. Behavioral Problems
- Enuresis: Bedwetting
- Nail biting, thumb sucking: Habit disorders
- Somnambulism: Sleep walking
Management: Behavior therapy, reassurance, avoid punishment
7. Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM)
Types: Marasmus, Kwashiorkor
Signs: Wasting, edema, growth failure
Management: Nutritional rehabilitation, health education
8. Helminthic Infections
Cause: Worm infestation
Symptoms: Anemia, abdominal pain
Management: Deworming, hygiene education
9. Bites and Stings
Includes: Insect, snake, animal bites
Care:
- First aid
- Anti-rabies vaccination (if required)
- Observation for reactions
10. Pica
Definition: Eating non-food substances (soil, chalk)
Cause: Iron deficiency, emotional stress
Management: Treat anemia, counseling
11. Tics
Description: Involuntary repetitive movements
Management: Reassurance, behavioral therapy
c) Adolescent (12–18 Years)
1. Precocious Puberty
Definition: Early onset of secondary sexual characteristics
Management: Medical evaluation and counseling
2. Gynecomastia
Description: Enlargement of breast tissue in boys
Cause: Hormonal imbalance
Management: Reassurance, medical advice if persistent
3. Accidents & Sports Injuries
Types: Fractures, sprains, head injuries
Prevention: Safety education, protective gear
4. Obesity & Anorexia Nervosa
- Obesity: Excess body weight due to poor diet, inactivity
- Anorexia nervosa: Eating disorder with fear of weight gain
Management: Nutritional counseling, psychological support
5. Juvenile Delinquency
Definition: Antisocial or criminal behavior in adolescents
Causes:
- Peer pressure
- Family problems
- Substance abuse
Prevention & Care:
- Counseling
- Family and school involvement
- Community support programs
Conclusion
Disorders and health problems during infancy, childhood, and adolescence can affect growth and development if not addressed early. Pediatric nurses play a vital role in prevention, early detection, management, family education, and rehabilitation to ensure optimal child health.