Read the following case and answer reflective questions. Provide evidence based rationals for your answers APA 7th forma and scholarly references no older than 5 years old
CASE STUDY: Preschool Child: Ricky Ricky, age 4 years, arrives in the clinic with his mother. Ricky lives with his mother and father, who both work full-time, and his infant sister. Their extended family lives in a different state more than 100 miles away. Both parents are of average height and in good health. Ricky’s mother mentions that Ricky often expresses frustration, particularly in regard to food. Conflict over food occurs every day. Mealtime is a battle to get him to eat, unless his mother feeds him. Ricky’s baby sister seems to tolerate all baby foods but requires her mother to spoon-feed. Ricky’s mother is quite frustrated and concerned that he will become malnourished.
Reflective Questions
1. What additional assessment information would you collect?
2. What questions would you ask, and how would you further explore this issue with the mother?
3. In what ways does the distance of the extended family influence this family’s approach to health promotion?
4. What factors would you consider to determine whether malnourishment is a factor in this family?
- Additional Assessment Information:
- Anthropometric Measurements: Gather data on Ricky’s height, weight, and growth trends to assess his nutritional status and growth development. Compare this data to age-appropriate growth charts.
- Dietary Habits: Explore the specifics of Ricky’s dietary intake, including the types and amounts of foods he consumes, any food preferences, aversions, allergies, or sensitivities.
- Feeding Environment: Assess the mealtime environment, including any distractions or stressors that may be contributing to Ricky’s frustration.
- Questions for Exploration:
- Ask about Ricky’s food preferences and aversions. Inquire about specific situations or foods that trigger his frustration.
- Explore the family’s mealtime routine, including the roles of each family member during meals.
- Ask about any recent changes or stressors in the family’s life that may be affecting Ricky’s behavior.
- Inquire about Ricky’s physical and emotional development milestones and any recent illnesses or developmental concerns.
- Influence of Extended Family:
- Distance from extended family can influence the family’s approach to health promotion by limiting their support system. The lack of close relatives might lead to increased stress and isolation for the parents, potentially affecting their ability to address Ricky’s eating issues.
- The absence of nearby relatives may also affect the availability of guidance and advice from experienced family members regarding childcare and nutrition.
- Factors to Determine Malnourishment:
- Review Ricky’s growth trends in comparison to standard growth charts for his age.
- Consider Ricky’s dietary intake, including types of foods consumed and portion sizes. An assessment of his nutrient intake is important.
- Evaluate any signs of malnutrition, such as poor weight gain, lethargy, dry skin, brittle hair, and signs of nutrient deficiencies (e.g., anemia).
- Assess Ricky’s developmental milestones to ensure he is meeting age-appropriate physical and cognitive milestones.
In this case, a comprehensive assessment is crucial to determine the underlying causes of Ricky’s eating issues and whether malnourishment is a concern. Collaboration with a pediatric dietitian or nutritionist may also be necessary to address any nutritional deficiencies and provide guidance on improving Ricky’s eating habits. Additionally, considering the family’s unique circumstances, such as the lack of nearby extended family, is important in developing a holistic plan for health promotion and support.