The Nurse's Role in Advocating Children and Adolescents with ADHD
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Snehal Patel
College:
The College of Health Professions and Human Services
Major:
Nursing
Faculty Research Advisor(s):
Ibtihal Al Makhzoomy
Abstract:
The Nurse’s Role in Advocating Children and Adolescents with ADHD
Background: Raising a child with ADHD presents unique challenges that require additional support in various areas of their life such as daily activities, education, emotions, interactions, and social connections. Studies have shown that these children often experience frequent outbursts and challenging behaviors which can be overwhelming for both parents and caregivers.
Purpose: To alleviate this burden, the CDC recommends a variety of strategies, including comprehensive healthcare follow-up, medication, and non-pharmacological approaches such as therapy, exercise, and lifestyle modifications. By adopting a holistic approach that encompasses physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being, individuals can significantly enhance their overall quality of life. However, the shortage of psychiatrists can make it more challenging to diagnose and treat ADHD.
PICOT: To address this issue, a new study has shed light on the vital role that nurses can play in managing ADHD in children, with a particular focus on improving academic outcomes.
METHODS: The study involved a comprehensive literature review of 22 articles, including four systematic reviews, five randomized control trials, six quantitative studies, five qualitative studies, and two case-control trials. The search used relevant keywords and text words from the latest available years up to 2019, across multiple databases, including CINAHL, PubMed, PsycINFO, Cochrane, and Google Scholar.
Result: The findings underscore the importance of non-pharmacological therapies such as behavioral interventions and educational support and highlight the important role that nurses can play in delivering these interventions for children and adolescents with ADHD.