The Child with Cognitive Impairment Lecture Flashcards

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering the definitions, key diagnostic criteria, and nursing management of Cognitive Impairment, Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and ADHD.

Cognitive Impairment (CI)

A general term that encompasses any type of intellectual disability.

AAIDD Diagnostic Criteria for CI

Manifestation of sub-average intelligence with an IQ below $70$-$75$ and functional impairment in at least $2$ domains such as communication, self-care, or social skills.

IEP

Individualized education plan.

IFSP

Individualized family services plan.

Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome)

A genetic disorder caused by a $3rd$ copy of the $21st$ chromosome, occurring in approximately $1/800$ live births.

Dysmorphic features of Down Syndrome

Physical signs including inner epicanthal folds, depressed nasal bridge, small nose, protruding tongue, and excess skin on the back of the neck.

Atlantoaxial instability

A clinical manifestation associated with Down Syndrome involving the first two cervical vertebrae.

Down Syndrome Comorbidities

Associated illnesses including congenital heart defects, acute megakaryoblastic leukemia, hypothyroidism, and obesity.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

A complex developmental disorder characterized by core deficits in social interactions, communication, and behavior.

ASD Social Interaction Deficits

Early signs including abnormal eye contact, failure to smile, failure to orient to name, and lack of interactive play.

Echolalia

Atypical language where the individual repeats words or phrases, often seen in children with ASD.

ASD Communication Strategy

Using concrete wording, avoid figures of speech, and utilizing simple nonverbal communication like pointing.

ASD Behavioral Impairments

Repetitive, impulsive, and obsessive behaviors such as rocking, flapping hands, spinning, or self-injury.

ADHD

Developmentally inappropriate degrees of inattention, impulsiveness, and hyperactivity appearing between ages $4$-$18$.

ADHD Diagnostic Requirements

Behavior must be present before age $7$ and observed in at least $2$ different settings.

Methylphenidate

A psychostimulant (brand names Ritalin, Concerta, Methylin) used as pharmacologic therapy for ADHD.

ADHD Stimulant Side Effects

Common issues include weight loss, abdominal pain, decreased appetite, sleeplessness, and headaches.

ADHD Medication Administration

Typically BID at breakfast and noon; immediate release should be given on an empty stomach and caffeine should be avoided.

Drug Holiday

The practice of skipping medication doses; notably, this is NOT recommended for children with ADHD according to the lecture.

Transverse palmar creases

A physical finding on the hand that is highly suggestive of Down Syndrome.