10-1 © 2011 Pearson Education, Inc. All rights reserved. Nutrition, Health, and Safety for Young Children: Promoting Wellness, 1e Sorte, Daeschel, Amador

10-1© 2011 Pearson Education, Inc.

All rights reserved.

Nutrition, Health, and Safety for Young Children: Promoting Wellness, 1eSorte, Daeschel, Amador

Chapter Ten

Health Screening and Assessment




Purpose of Health Evaluations

To understand a child’s health status To identify medical conditions or risk factors for

illness or injury To identify children who may benefit from further

evaluations or referrals To help families learn about the health of their

child To identify gaps in the family’s access to needed

resources




Managing Health Information

Provide a private space for teachers and families to discuss issues without being overheard.

Keep all written documents out of view when in use. Store all written documents in a locked file. Ensure that information stored on computers is password-

protected. Turn computer screens away from public view when in use. Require the signature of the parent or other person authorized by

the parent for the release of children’s health information.




The Child’s Health History

A summary of child’s previous health experiences

The child’s medical history

Information about previous injuries

A record of the child’s developmental growth and progress




Components of Health History

Early development History of illness, disease, injuries, or accidents Immunization status Child safety and risk-taking behaviors Nutritional background Oral health history Mental and emotional health history Health and wellness information about the family




What if…

A late-enrolling child arrives on the first day of school with their immunization records in hand that are not up to date?

How would you respond?




Potential Reactions Following Vaccinations

Local reaction (most common)– pain, swelling, redness at site of injection

Systematic reaction – generalized symptoms, fever, malaise, fatigue, muscle pain, headache, loss of appetite

Allergic reactions (very rare) – life threatening, trouble breathing, weakness, wheezing, hives, and swelling of the throat




Nutrition Screening

Are there any barriers to providing healthful foods? Is the child’s diet nutritious and age appropriate? What are the child’s eating habits? Does the child have any special dietary needs or

food restrictions? Is the child growing appropriately?




Oral Health History

Has the child had any dental surgery or other procedures?

Has the child ever had a dental examination or screening?

Is the child under the care of a dentist?

Does the child brush her or his own teeth?




Mental and Emotional Health History: Social and Emotional Indicators

The child’s ability to interact positively with others The child’s ability to control emotions The child’s interest in playing with others Ways the child copes with change and stress Problems or worries the child may have




Family Health and Wellness

Family medical history Home environment

– Smoking in the home, exposure to drugs, exposure to lead– Water sources– Unsafe neighborhoods

Family dynamics– Relationships between family members– Familial needs




Promoting Health and Wellness

Offer healthful food at meals and snack times Feed children breakfast Ensure adequate sleep Provide active play Dress children appropriately Encourage sunscreen use Decrease screen time (television, computers) Increase reading time together Teach children safety habits




Health Promotion Topics

Reducing children’s exposure to violence

Reducing children’s exposure to family stress

Creating smoke-free environments




Growth Measurements

Height and Weight

Body Mass Index (BMI) – Calculated by multiplying weight in pounds by 703 and

dividing by height in inches squared. – Number is plotted on BMI charts for categories of

underweight, normal weight, overweight, obese.




Oral Health Assessments

Dental caries (cavities) are one of the most common chronic diseases in childhood.

– Children should have a dental visit by their first birthday.

– Children should continue regular visits to the dentist every six months




Hearing Screening

Hearing loss is the most common congenital condition in the US.

Most newborns have a hearing screening within the first few days of life.

Hearing loss can occur in both ears or just one.




Vision Screening

Estimated 5% - 10 % of preschoolers have some type of vision problem.

Amblyopia: a condition that causes unfocused vision (lazy eye) Strabismus: a condition in which the eyes are not aligned with

one another Refractive disorders: conditions that cause problems with

focusing Colorblindness: the inability to distinguish between some

colors.




Signs of Visual Problems

Rubbing eyes frequently

Tilting head to look at items

Holding objects close to eyes or trouble reading

Blinking more than usual

Squinting eyes or frowning




Screening for Communication Disorders

Formalized screening includes speech language pathologists.

Input from families and teachers is important.

Outcomes are best when communication disorders are diagnosed and treated early.

Assessment must be conducted in child’s native language.




Sources of Lead Exposure

Soil Dust Lead exposure to the fetus in utero Breast milk Lead plumbing Imported pottery or metal vases Industrial sources




Developmental Screening

Identifies possible developmental delays early so that intervention strategies can be planned and implemented.

Identifies children’s strengths and needs and informs the development of appropriate classroom curriculum.




Conducting Daily Health Checks

Changes in behavior or appearance Skin rashes, itchy skin or scalp Signs of elevated body temperature Complaints of pain or not feeling well Other signs or symptoms of illness Reports or illness or injury




What if…

You notice a child has difficulty speaking so others can understand him?

How would you approach the family with your concerns?

Documents

10-1 © 2011 Pearson Education, Inc. All rights reserved. Nutrition, Health, and Safety for Young Children: Promoting Wellness, 1e Sorte, Daeschel, Amador