Growth & Development

A series of flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to growth and development in nursing.

Growth

Increase in number and size of cells as they divide and synthesize new proteins.

Development

Advancement from a lower to a higher stage of complexity; involves maturation and learning.

Sequential trends

Patterns in growth and development that are universal but vary for each individual.

Cephalocaudal pattern

Directional growth pattern that proceeds from head to toe.

Proximodistal pattern

Directional growth pattern from the midline of the body outwards to the periphery.

Developmental milestones

Key skills or abilities achieved by children at specific ages.

Erikson’s Stages of Development

The theory that individuals must master specific tasks at each developmental stage to achieve optimal maturity.

Autonomy

The developmental task for toddlers, involving a sense of independence.

Trust vs. Mistrust

The first stage of Erikson’s theory where infants learn to trust caregivers for their needs.

Cognitive Development

The intellectual maturation process outlined by Piaget through four distinct stages.

Body Mass Index (BMI)

A measure to assess body weight in relation to height, used to define childhood obesity.

Nutritional Heritage

The impact of family attitudes towards food on children's nutrition and health.

Height and weight plot

A method of visualizing a child's growth on a standard growth chart.

Developmental needs

Specific requirements that influence a child's health response and care plan.

Anticipatory guidance

Information and advice provided to parents to prepare them for upcoming developmental changes.

Feeding guidelines for children

Recommendations for appropriate food portions based on a child's age.

Growth spurts

Periods of rapid growth followed by slower growth rates, especially in children.