Major Diseases Affecting Children Aged O To 12 Years: Prevention, Treatment, And Nursing Care
Childhood is a crucial period for physical and mental development, but it is also a phase in which children are more vulnerable to various diseases due to their developing immune system.
This article discusses seven of the major diseases that affect children aged 0 to 12 years, highlighting medical interventions, available vaccines, and essential nursing care.
1. Common Cold
The common cold is one of the most frequent diseases in children, caused by several viruses such as rhinovirus. Symptoms include a runny nose, cough, mild fever, and sore throat.
- Medical Interventions: Symptomatic treatment with antipyretics and hydration.
- Vaccines: There is no specific vaccine for the common cold.
- Nursing Care: Encourage fluid intake, monitor fever, and educate parents on the importance of rest for the child.
2. Otitis Media
Otitis media is an infection in the middle ear, common in young children, often associated with respiratory infections.
- Medical Interventions: Use of antibiotics, analgesics, and, in severe cases, ear drainage.
- Vaccines: The pneumococcal vaccine helps prevent infections that can lead to otitis.
- Nursing Care: Teach parents to administer medication correctly and observe for signs of complications, such as persistent fever.
3. Gastroenteritis
Caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites, gastroenteritis leads to diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration.
- Medical Interventions: Oral or intravenous rehydration and, in some cases, use of probiotics.
- Vaccines: The rotavirus vaccine is effective in preventing viral gastroenteritis.
- Nursing Care: Monitor signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth and lethargy, and educate on hygiene importance to prevent reinfections.
4. Varicella (Chickenpox)
Varicella is a highly contagious viral disease characterized by fever and skin rashes.
- Medical Interventions: Use of antipyretics and soothing lotions to relieve itching.
- Vaccines: The varicella vaccine is highly effective in prevention.
- Nursing Care: Keep the child’s nails trimmed to avoid secondary infections and advise isolation until recovery.
5. Asthma
Asthma is a chronic condition affecting the airways, causing difficulty breathing, wheezing, and coughing.
- Medical Interventions: Use of bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids.
- Vaccines: There is no specific vaccine, but influenza and pneumonia vaccination are recommended to prevent complications.
- Nursing Care: Teach the correct use of inhalers and identify trigger factors such as dust and smoke.
6. Meningitis
Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, which can be caused by viruses or bacteria.
- Medical Interventions: Antibiotics for bacterial meningitis and intensive hospital support.
- Vaccines: Vaccines such as meningococcal C, pneumococcal, and Haemophilus influenzae type B are essential.
- Nursing Care: Monitor neurological signs such as neck stiffness and ensure correct medication administration.
7. Measles
Measles is a severe viral disease characterized by high fever, red spots, and respiratory symptoms.
- Medical Interventions: Symptomatic treatment with antipyretics and vitamin A to reduce complications.
- Vaccines: The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) is highly effective.
- Nursing Care: Isolate the child to avoid transmission and monitor signs of complications such as pneumonia.
General Nursing Care
Nursing care plays a critical role in managing these diseases. Key actions include:
- Parental Education: Provide guidance on the importance of vaccination and preventive measures.
- Medication Administration: Ensure medications are administered correctly.
- Monitoring Vital Signs: Observe changes that may indicate complications.
- Promotion of Hygiene: Encourage hygiene practices to prevent infections.
- Emotional Support: Offer support to the child and family during treatment.
Conclusion
Prevention, through vaccination and hygiene practices, is the best strategy to protect children against these diseases.
When they occur, appropriate medical interventions and nursing care are essential to ensure a swift and safe recovery. Collaboration between healthcare professionals and families can promote a healthy and happy childhood.
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