Chapter 8 Lifespan Development

Infant (Birth - 1 Year)

• Infants transition from complete dependency to self-sufficiency.
• Average birth weight is 6-7 pounds, with variations.
• Weight doubles by 6 months and triples by 12 months.
• Head accounts for 25% of body weight.
• Narrow airways can lead to obstruction.
• Key breathing muscles are the nose and diaphragm.
• Infants initially rely on maternal antibodies, building their own immunity over time.
• Reflexes present at birth diminish:
  • Moro reflex (startle): Arms out, fingers spread, grasp.
  • Palmer reflex: Grasping when palm is touched.
  • Rooting reflex (hunger): Turning towards cheek stimulation.
  • Sucking reflex: Initiated by lip stimulation.
• Sleep patterns:
  • Initially 16-18 hours.
  • Gradually transitions to 4-6 hours during the day and 9-10 hours at night.
• Growth plates at the ends of bones contribute to limb growth; musculoskeletal injuries are concerning.
• Fontanels (gaps in skull):
  • Posterior fontanelle: Closes around 2-3 months.
  • Anterior fontanelle: Closes between 9-18 months.
  • Sunken fontanels: Indicate dehydration.
  • Bulging fontanels: Indicate increased intracranial pressure or crying.
• Infants develop trust and thrive in predictable environments.
• Learn through scaffolding, building on existing knowledge.

Toddler (12-36 Months)

• Body temperature: 98.6-99.6 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Weight gain: Approximately 4 pounds per year.
• Body systems become more efficient:
  • Pulmonary: Terminal airways and alveolar spaces grow.
  • Nervous: Brain reaches 90% of adult weight.
  • Muscle development: Improved muscle mass and bone density.
  • Immune: Still developing, making toddlers susceptible to illness.
• Toilet training:
  • Physically possible 12-15 months.
  • Psychologically possible 18-30 months.
• Language development, understanding cause and effect.
• Separation anxiety may occur.
• Magical thinking and imaginative play emerge.

Preschool Age (3-5 Years)

• Continued growth and development of body systems.
• Increased social interaction and skill development.
• Peer groups provide information and diverse perspectives.
• Peer interactions offer learning, comparison, and belonging.

School Age (6-12 Years)

• Body temperature: 98.6-100.3 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Weight gain: Approximately 6 pounds per year.
• Height increase: 2-2.5 inches per year.
• Primary teeth lost, replaced by permanent teeth.
• Increased time away from parents, developing decision-making skills.
• Self-esteem influenced by peers and emotional support (or neglect).
• Moral code develops (rewards/punishments, then internal motives).

Adolescence (13-18 Years)

• Second major growth spurt (2-3 years).
• Growth affects feet, hands, arms, and legs.
• Sexual maturity and secondary sexual characteristics develop.
• Seeking independence and personal identity.
• Interest in sex emerges.
• Body image concerns lead to potential self-destructive behaviors.
• Personal code of ethics with specific expectations develops.

Early Adulthood (19-40 Years)

• Lifelong habits are established from adolescence.
• Peak physical condition generally between 19-26.
• Career and family development occur.
• Increased stress levels.
• Accidents are a leading cause in death, along with risk-taking behaviours.

Middle Adulthood (41-60 Years)

• No significant changes in vital signs (but vision correction may be needed).
• Chronic diseases (high cholesterol, heart disease, and cancer) become more common.
• Menopause begins in women.
• Task-oriented, focus on problem solving.
• "Empty nest" stage as children leave home.
• Balancing care for elderly parents and adult children.

Late Adulthood (61+ Years)

• Physical downslope.
• Vital signs may fluctuate.
• Decline in body systems (cardiovascular, respiratory, and endocrine).
• Sleep quality decreases.
• Environmental changes, self-worth, and financial burdens are challenges.
• Dealing with death and dying is prevalent.
• Motivations and interests change based on mobility, social interaction, and finances.

Vital Signs and Lifespan Development

• Vital signs change throughout lifespan, reflecting body maturation.
• Heart rate and respiratory rate typically decrease with age.
• Blood pressure tends to increase as the body becomes more efficient.

Understanding Lifespan Development in Healthcare

• Understanding lifespan development helps healthcare providers:
  • Set realistic expectations based on the patient's life stage.
  • Recognize varying abilities in maturity and communication.
  • Connect effectively with patients and understand their experiences.