However, one of the most pressing concerns for pediatric patients today is obesity. According to the CDC, childhood obesity is on the rise, from 5% in 1974 to almost 17% in 2008. Many factors contribute to this problem, including poor eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle, which have become the norm for many children in the United States.
Healthcare professionals must advocate for all children, working with families to improve their lifestyles. Helping children to make healthier food choices must begin at home. Developing activities to involve the entire family will enable children to get the exercise their growing bodies need.
Nurses, no matter where they work, come into contact with children. It's important to know that children require special handling. You must take developmental age into account, making sure to communicate effectively and clearly. Procedures and interventions should always be explained in simple terms to the child.