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.