Chapter 19 Pediatric Diseases and Disorders
Chapter 19 Pediatric Diseases and Disorders
Chapter 19 Pediatric Diseases and Disorders
Description
Lung disease in
which the airways
become inflamed
and obstructed as a
response to various
stimuli, including
allergens
Usual Treatment
Airway
obstruction,
wheezing,
coughing,
Bronchodilators
inability to speak,
Theophylline
Beta agonists
Corticosteroids
fatigue and
cyanosis,
which may result
in
severe distress
Diaper
dermatitis
A rash anywhere in
the groin region or
gluteal folds of the
buttocks which may
become infected
with bacteria or yeast
Patches of
reddened skin that
may contain fluid
and pustules
Frequent diaper
changes
Skin inflammation
resulting from
allergies and
irritatants
Vesicles, redness,
oozing, crusting,
scaling and itching
Removal of
offending agent,
astringents,
antihistamines,
corticosteroids
Gastroenteritis A syndrome of
vomiting and
diarrhea that may
cause dehydration
and electrolyte
imbalance
Diarrhea, vomiting,
dehydration,
lethargy, anorexia,
weight loss, fever
and decreased
urination
Give fluids
Impetigo
Superficial skin
infection
characterized by
vesicles and pustules
Lesions on the
skin, exudate,
crusting, and
itching
Systemic and
topical antibiotics
Otitis media
Bacterial or viral
infection of the
middle ear
Severe earache,
fever, nausea and
vomiting, and
diarrhea
Antibiotic therapy
Pinworms
Irritation of the
Eczema
Application of
protective barrier
ointments
Antibiotics if
caused by a
bacterial infection
(Enterobius
vermicularis)
anal region,
allergic skin
reaction, intense
itching, and
secondary infection
Scabies
Contagious skin
infestation caused by
the itch mite
5% permethrin
cream
Severe throat
infection caused by
the Streptococcus
genus of bacteria
Antibiotics
Urinary tract
infection
An infection of the
kidneys, ureters, or
bladder caused by
microorganisms
Painful and
frequent urination,
foul-smelling
urine, and
hematuria
Antibiotics
Hyperactivity
Usually the child is viewed as one who is disruptive and highly active. Another child with
ADHD might be a day dreamer. Poor concentration is a term often used to describe the patient.
This condition is difficult to diagnose as these symptoms may also be an indication of other
physical or emotional problems. If diagnosed, the patient can be treated with medication and
support by the health care team.
Autism
Autism is a brain disorder that hinders a persons ability to communicate or relate to others. It is
thought to be a genetic disorder, as it often runs in families. This disorder can also affect how a
child understands and processes information that is sensory in nature.
Autism is usually diagnosed by the time a child reaches the age of three; however, some
cases are not diagnosed until later. Typically parents are the first to notice the signs and seek the
advice of their pediatrician. There are diagnostic guidelines that have been established by the
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) which the clinician will use to
determine if the child has the core symptoms of autism. Signs and symptoms may include:
Toddlers who do not begin to talk or do not interact like other children do
Plays alone
Repetitive patterns of behavior such as, rocking, keeping to a certain routine or ritual, and
resistance to any change
There is no mold that all persons with autism fit into. Some need help with the simplest
aspects of daily living, while others are able to function at a level high enough that permits them
to attend school in a regular class and participate in sports and other activities.
Treatment methods include: behavioral, speech, and occupational therapy, parent
education, and sometimes medications. Since each child with autism is different, treatment
methods are usually individualized. Collectively, most children with autism need to be in a
structured and specialized educational program in order to achieve their highest potential.
Down Syndrome
Down syndrome is a common birth defect that occurs in approximately one in every 800 to 1,000
newborns. This syndrome includes mild to moderate mental retardation and other health
problems such as cardiac valvular disease, along with specific physical characteristics which
include a sloping forehead, low-set ears, and short, broad hands.
The most common form of Down syndrome, trisomy 21, is caused by the presence of an
extra 21st chromosome. The cause of the occurrence of this extra chromosome is unknown but
appears to be related to the age of the mother and usually occurs in women over the age of 40.
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a term that is used to describe a range of disorders that impairs control of
movement due to damage to the brain during its developmental stage. It is one of the most
common causes of disability in children. While CP is not a progressive disease, symptoms may
get better for a time only to worsen later on. The exact cause of CP is unknown but is thought to
be related to the oxygen levels in the brain before, during, and after birth, infections, and injuries
occurring during the birth process. Children with CP not only have physical disabilities, but may
also have some level of retardation, learning disabilities, and vision, speech, hearing, and
language problems.
Patient Tutor
Parents, especially first-time parents, and caregivers may need to be
provided with educational information on infant and child safety
issues, including car seats, cribs, animals/pets, etc. Brochures and
pamphlets are useful tools along with information about community
resources available to assist the parent with these issues.
Supraventricular tachycardia
Fever