Pediatric Nursing Chapter 1

Study Notes

Principles of Growth and Development

Growth and development are continuous processes occurring from conception to end of life; significant for pediatric nursing assessment.
Early identification of developmental issues, even minor ones, can prevent severe consequences in later life.
Development transcends physical changes, including cognitive, emotional, and social growth as children mature.
Children not only grow in size but also acquire new skills, broaden thinking, build relationships, and develop a sense of self.
Understanding developmental stages and milestones enables better support for children at each growth phase.
Growth and development are interrelated, contributing uniquely to each individual's journey.

Growth Defined

Growth refers to the increase in physical size of the entire organism or specific body parts through cell division and protein synthesis.
It results in a quantifiable change assessed in height, weight, inches, centimeters, pounds, or kilograms.
Growth is orderly and predictable, following a cyclical pattern, characterized by net gains in tissue size or mass.
It reflects cell multiplication and the addition of intracellular substances, leading to increased functional complexity.
Growth is considered a quantitative change as opposed to qualitative.

Growth Parameters

Weight: Most sensitive growth measurement. Typical milestones include:
- Birth weight doubles by 5 months.
- Birth weight tripled by 1 year.
- Birth weight quadruples by 2 to 2.5 years.
Height: Growth patterns include:
- 1 inch per month during the first six months.
- ½ inch per month from 7 to 12 months.
- Average height increase of 50% in the first year.
Hormones:
- Estrogen influences height increase in females.
- Testosterone influences height increase in males.
- Height growth can stop with wisdom tooth eruption.

Principles of Growth

Growth is continuous and influenced by hormonal interactions, genetics, and environmental factors.
In the first three years, growth follows a curvilinear pattern; after that, it becomes linear.
Growth in the first year mainly reflects inherited potential, while various factors contribute later.
Significant growth spurts occur during the late fetal period and during puberty.

Phases of Growth

Phase I: Hyperplasia (increase in cell number).
Phase II: Hyperplasia combined with hypertrophy (increase in cell size).
Phase III: Hypertrophy alone.
Phase IV: Maturity (completion of growth).

Description

Explore the fundamental principles of growth and development in pediatric nursing. This chapter emphasizes the importance of early assessment and intervention for ensuring healthy outcomes throughout the lifespan. Understanding the continuous journey of growth from conception to adulthood is vital for nursing practice.