Caring for Children With Special Healthcare Needs and Their Families - 9780813820828

The book provides a practical guide for healthcare providers who minister to special needs children (15 percent of US children) and their families. Eddy (nursing, College of Nursing, Washington State University) and her contributors aim to provide clinicians from various disciplines with a resource that is easily accessible and that offers practical advice on caring for children with various challenges--physical, sensory, developmental, communication, social/emotion. There are 13 chapters divided into three main areas: chapters 2 and 3 describe etiologies, symptoms, therapies, and prognoses of various disabilities, as well as an introduction to the role of the healthcare provider; chapters 4 through 6 discuss specific interventions, while addressing differences in social, emotional status, mobility, and community, which are common to specific needs children; chapters 7 through 13 inform the clinicians about the issues affecting disabled children, including addressing legal issues, the family as client, quality care, and quality of life for child and family, public health, end-of-life care, care planning and coordination. There are case studies included from the editor's own practice, highlighting practices and challenges inherent in caring for the disabled population. The book is invaluable for pediatric and family nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurses, and social service professionals, as well as for physical, occupational, and speech therapists. There is a list of contributors, other recommended resources, references, and other recommended readings. Annotation ©2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)