An’Iah, a 5-year-old female, was admitted to the pediatric oncology unit with a diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). She presented with symptoms of fatigue, fever, and bruising, which led to the diagnosis after comprehensive diagnostic workup. An’Iah’s parents, Christopher and Melanie, were devastated by the news but remained hopeful for their daughter's recovery.
Initial Assessment: Upon admission, An’Iah appeared withdrawn and anxious. She expressed fear of needles and medical procedures and was quite tearful. The nursing team conducted a thorough assessment, including physical examination, vital signs monitoring, and psychosocial evaluation. It was evident that An’Iah’s emotional well-being was as crucial as her medical treatment.
Zy’air, a 3-month-old baby boy, was brought to the ER by his fathers, Brandon and Tyrell. Zy’air was born full-term via surrogacy and was in good health. However, his fathers expressed concerns about his feeding patterns and sleep habits, seeking guidance from the pediatric nursing team. Fathers reported that Zy’air often chokes and gags while taking his bottles.
Initial Assessment: Upon arrival at the clinic, Zy’air appeared alert and responsive. The nursing team conducted a comprehensive assessment, including monitoring vital signs, evaluating feeding techniques, and assessing Alex's growth and development. It was noted that Zy’air has a phlegmy cough which could be a sign of aspiration and concerns of possible pneumonia were discussed. It was evident that Brandon and Tyrell were actively involved in Zy’air’s care and were committed to providing him with the best possible upbringing. Scheduled a swallow study and occupational therapy evaluation to assess Zy’air’s suck, swallow, breathe patterns. Both Brandon and Tyrell appeared anxious as they were pacing and crying.
Lily, a 9-year-old female, was placed in foster care due to neglect and parental substance abuse. She was admitted to the pediatric clinic for a routine health checkup mandated by child protective services. Lily was accompanied by her foster parent, Tatiana, who expressed concerns about Lily's emotional health and adjustment to her new living situation.
Initial Assessment: During the initial assessment, Lily appeared withdrawn and hesitant to engage with the nursing staff. She expressed fear of medical procedures and reluctance to discuss her feelings or experiences. The nursing team recognized the importance of building trust and rapport with Lily to provide comprehensive care tailored to her needs.
Sanjay, a 16-year-old male, presented to the adolescent health clinic for a routine check-up. He appeared healthy and active but expressed concerns about his weight and body image. Sanjay’s parents were supportive but busy with work, and he often felt overwhelmed by academic pressures and peer expectations.
Initial Assessment: During the initial assessment, Sanjay appeared apprehensive but willing to engage with the nursing staff. He disclosed feelings of stress, anxiety, and self-consciousness about his appearance. The nursing team recognized the need to address Sanjay’s physical and emotional health concerns in a supportive and non-judgmental manner.
Maria, a 16-year-old female, was admitted to the pediatric hematology unit with a vaso-occlusive crisis secondary to sickle cell disease. Maria presented with severe pain in her lower back and legs, along with fatigue and shortness of breath. She had a history of recurrent pain crises and had been managing her condition with regular medications and supportive care.
Initial Assessment: Upon admission, Maria appeared in distress due to the intensity of her pain. The nursing team conducted a thorough assessment, including monitoring vital signs, assessing pain intensity using a pain scale, and evaluating oxygen saturation levels. They also reviewed Maria's medical history, including her previous treatments and management strategies for sickle cell disease.
Cheng, a 4-year-old male, was admitted to the pediatric rehabilitation unit following a spinal cord injury resulting in paraplegia. Cheng’s parents, Aki and Mira, were devastated by his diagnosis but remained committed to supporting Cheng’s recovery and rehabilitation. Cheng presented with limited mobility, muscle weakness, and altered sensation in his lower extremities.
Initial Assessment: Upon admission, Cheng appeared apprehensive but curious about his new environment. The nursing team conducted a thorough assessment, including neurological evaluation, assessment of skin integrity, and identification of Cheng’s developmental needs and abilities. It was evident that Cheng’s parents played a crucial role in his care and rehabilitation journey.
Emma, a 2-year-old female, was admitted to the pediatric emergency department with burns to her hands and arms after accidentally touching a hot stove. Emma's dad, Joe, brought her to the hospital for treatment. Paternal grandma, Alice, was also present. However, healthcare providers observed additional concerning factors, including delayed presentation to medical care and inconsistent explanations of the injury mechanism.
Initial Assessment: Upon admission, Emma was assessed by the pediatric nursing team. Her burns were classified as partial-thickness burns, with redness, blistering, and pain present on her hands and arms. Nursing staff also noted signs of neglect, including poor hygiene, inadequate clothing, and failure to seek medical care promptly. Suspecting child maltreatment, the nursing team-initiated communication with Child Protective Services (CPS).