Similarities

• The same body systems are assessed in children and adults.
• The same techniques are used to assess the body systems.
• The same equipment is used to assess the body systems.
• The same documentation is used to record the findings of the physical assessment.

Differences

• The approach to the physical assessment is different for children and adults.
• The nurse needs to be more patient and gentle when assessing children.
• The nurse needs to be more creative when explaining the physical assessment to children.
• The nurse needs to be more engaging when assessing children.

Instruction

When providing instruction during the physical assessment of a child, the nurse should:

• Use simple language that the child can understand.
• Use visual aids, such as pictures or diagrams, to help explain the procedure.
• Be patient and allow the child to ask questions.
• Make the experience as positive as possible for the child.

Communication

When communicating with a child during the physical assessment, the nurse should:

• Speak in a calm and soothing voice.
• Avoid using medical jargon.
• Get down on the child’s level so that you are at eye level.
• Make eye contact with the child.
• Be sensitive to the child’s emotions.

Engagement

To encourage engagement during the physical assessment, the nurse can:

• Allow the child to participate in the assessment as much as possible.
• Give the child choices whenever possible.
• Make the assessment fun and interactive.
• Praise the child for their cooperation.

Here are some specific examples of how the nurse would adapt their approach to the physical assessment of a child:

• Instead of asking the child to lie down on the exam table, the nurse could ask them to sit on their parent’s lap.
• Instead of using a stethoscope, the nurse could use a toy stethoscope that the child can hold.
• Instead of asking the child to cough, the nurse could ask them to blow bubbles.
• Instead of asking the child to open their mouth, the nurse could ask them to show their teeth.

The nurse should also be aware of the child’s developmental level and tailor the assessment accordingly. For example, a younger child may not be able to follow instructions as well as an older child. The nurse may need to be more patient and take more breaks with younger children.

By taking the time to adapt their approach to the physical assessment, the nurse can make the experience more comfortable and less stressful for the child. This can help to ensure that the child gets the best possible care.