Disease Prevention Across Life Stages

Study Notes

Immunizations are crucial for infants and children (0-9 years) to protect against various diseases.
Adequate nutrition in childhood is essential for healthy growth and development.
Mental health services should be accessible for children to address emotional and psychological needs.

Contraception methods, including condoms, reduce the risk of STIs and unintended pregnancies.
Vaccinations continue to be important in adolescence for ongoing disease prevention.
Nutritional needs must be met to support the rapid growth and developmental changes during this stage.

Pap smears remain important for cervical cancer screening in this age group.
Mammograms help in the early detection of breast cancer.
Nutrition should focus on calcium and vitamin D to maintain bone health.
Regular visits to a primary care physician (PCP) are encouraged for ongoing health management.

HPV Vaccine (Gardasil 9): Protects against HPV types 6, 11, 16, 18, and others, recommended for ages 9-45.
- 2 doses for those under 15; 3 doses for those over 15.
Pap Smear/HPV Test: Critical for cervical cancer screening.
- USPTF/ACOG guidelines recommend screening starts at age 21, with frequency based on age and risk factors.
- ACS guidelines suggest no screening for ages 21-25, with different intervals for those 25-65.
Mammogram Guidelines:
- Starts at age 40-49 based on individual risk, every 2 years for ages 50-74.
- ACS allows for annual screening from ages 40-44, recommending annual screenings at 45-54, and biennial at 55+.

Begin with the chief complaint to understand primary concerns.
Gather comprehensive health, menstrual, and obstetric histories.
Assess contraception usage, including current methods and past complications.
Document history of cervical and vaginal cytology, STIs, infertility, and sexual history.
Obtain detailed past medical, surgical, and family histories, focusing on hereditary diseases.
Social history should include lifestyle choices, education, and occupation.
Emphasize health maintenance practices, including diet, screenings, and immunizations.

Physical exams must assess breast, abdominal, and pelvic organs.
Assess the appropriateness of a pelvic exam for patients who are not sexually active.
Ensure patient comfort with explanations, emptying bladders, and providing chaperones during exams.
Diagnostic lab procedures should include UA, culture tests, and screening for STIs, among others.

Conduct various diagnostic office procedures, like wet mounts for assessing infections, and follow up with necessary lab tests based on clinical findings.