Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder p.850 ADHD is one of the most publicized and prevalent psychiatric conditions of childhood. A child can have ADHD with or without hyperactivity. The symptom of ADHD without hyperactivity has symptoms of distractibility. While ADHD without hyperactivity garners much less attention that ADHD with hyperactivity, it can cause just as much difficulty in the life of the child and family. The CDC has indicated that 9.5% of children in the United States have been diagnosed with ADHD. That is a significant increase over the 3-7% reported prior.Parent reported ADHD increased at an even greater rate @ 22%. As with other psychiatric disorders, particularity autism spectrum disorders, it is yet unclear if the increase in numbers is a result of better case-finding, increased public awareness, or an actual increase in the disorder. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder p.851 Six or more of the following symptoms of hyperactivity- impulsivity have persisted for 6 months to a degree that is maladaptive and inconsistent with developmental level: Hyperactivity Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat Often leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected Often runs about or climbs excessively in situation in which it is inappropriate Is often "on the go" or often acts as if "driven by a motor." Often talks excessively Impulsivity Often blurts out answers before question have been completed Often has difficulty awaiting turn Often interrupts or intrudes on other (butts into conversations or gamesfi
Signs and Symptoms of ADHD include: Inattention Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities. Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities. Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly. Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace. Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities. Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that reguired sustained mentaleffort(such as schoolwork or homeworkfi Often loses things necessary for tasks or activities (school assignments, pencils, books, or toolsfi Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli. Is often forgetful in daily activities. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder p.851 Diagnosis: Evaluations for ADHD are conducted by advanced practice nurses, physicians, and other health care providers. For diagnosis, the child must meet the diagnostic criteria as defined in table 22-2. When the criteria is met, the final diagnosis reguires evidence of the child's behavior in a variety of settings, such as the classroom, during homework, or playtime. Evidence is obtained by asking parent, teachers, and other caregivers to complete rating scales about behavior. Additional information needed includes the age at onset of symptoms, duration of symptoms, and degree of impaired functioning Collaborative Care The most effective treatment for ADHD is combination of pharmacological and psychosocial interventions. Changing maladaptive behavior patterns are worked on during therapy with the child and family. Early intervention works best, and the child may have periods of maladaptive and adaptive behavior. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder p.8