What techniques are helpful to incorporate in assessing a patient in this age group?

Jonah Kotter is a 5-year-old male preschooler who presents to the pediatrician’s office for complaints that his leg “hurts”.

Subjective Data

  • PMH negative
  • Immunizations: Up to date
  • No medications
  • No allergies
  • Pain: 3/5 on pain scale
  • Attends Kindergarten
  • Does not remember injuring leg

Objective Data

  • Vital signs: T 37 degrees Centigrade, P 94, R 18, BP 100/70
  • Lungs: clear
  • Heart rate and rhythm regular
  • Moving all extremities
  • + Range of motion legs and arms
  • Strength 5/5 in all extremities
  1. What other questions should the nurse ask?
  2. What techniques are helpful to incorporate in assessing a patient in this age group?
  3. What are a few of the major differences in the musculoskeletal assessment of a child?
  4. What should be included in the plan of care?
  5. Based on the readings, what is the most likely cause of leg pain for this patient?
APA FORMAT
REFERENCE:Jarvis, C. (2016). Physical examination & health assessment (7th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Saunders.

 

  • Chapter 22: Musculoskeletal System
    • pp. 577–619 (Structure, Function, Subjective and Objective Data, Documentation and Critical Thinking)
  • Chapter 23: Neurologic System
    • pp. 633–676 (Structure, Function, Subjective and Objective Data, Documentation and Critical Thinking)