1. Age Specific Care

2. Age-Specific Considerations for Pediatric Patients

3. 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.

4. 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

5. 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.

6. 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)

7. 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

8. 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

9. Toddlers Opportunity to express independence
Detailed preparation for parents and brief preparation for the child
Reassurance and brief explanations of procedures or treatments

10. 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

11. 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

12. 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”

13. 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

14. 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

15. 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

16. Adolescents Detailed preparation and explanations
Opportunity to talk about concerns with staff and peers
Appropriate parental involvement

17. 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

18. 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

19. 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

20. 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.