Pediatric clients

Definition

Pediatric clients are children and adolescents who require medical care, including pharmacological treatments. Special considerations must be made for their unique physiological and developmental needs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pediatric dosages often need to be calculated based on weight (mg/kg) to ensure safety and efficacy.
2. Children metabolize drugs differently than adults, often requiring adjustments in dosing frequency or amount.
3. Certain medications have age-specific contraindications due to developmental considerations, such as the risk of Reye's syndrome with aspirin use in children.
4. Liquid formulations are commonly used for pediatric clients due to difficulty swallowing pills.
5. Monitoring for adverse drug reactions is crucial in pediatrics, as children may not communicate side effects effectively.

Review Questions

• Why is it important to calculate pediatric dosages based on weight?
• What is a major consideration when prescribing aspirin to a pediatric client?
• How do pharmacokinetics differ in pediatric clients compared to adults?

Related terms

Pharmacokinetics: The study of how a drug moves through the body, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.

Contraindication: A specific situation where a drug should not be used because it may be harmful to the patient.

Reye's Syndrome: A rare but serious condition that causes swelling in the liver and brain, associated with aspirin use in children recovering from viral infections.