Attention-Deficit

Hyperactivity Disorder in

Children

Cassandra Rose and Julia SpringerNursing Care of Child and

Adolescents

• Exact etiology is unknown• Believed to be an alteration in dopamine and norepinephrine

•The following home video is of a child who was diagnosed at the age of 8 with ADHD. •He is 2 years old in this video.

•All age groups can be affected•Children can be diagnosed as earlier as age 3•The average age of diagnosis is between 8 to 9 years old•Causes impairment in two situations (home and school) - Present for at least six months

- Inappropriate for child’s age•Six inattention symptoms and/or six hyperactive-impulsive symptoms required for diagnosis

- The following is a list of signs and symptoms

•Inattention includes: - careless mistakes in schoolwork or other activities - failure to follow instructions or finish schoolwork, chores, or tasks- difficulty organizing tasks and activities- easily distracted

•Hyperactivity includes:- fidgeting with hands or feet- difficulty engaging in activities quietly- talks excessively- constantly moving- even when seated

•Impulsivity includes: - blurting out answers before questions are asked- difficulty waiting turn- interrupts others in conversations or games

•“Stimulant therapy has been demonstrated to reduce core ADHD symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity and to maximize more desired functions such as improving interpersonal skills and academic performance and decreasing disruptive behaviors” (Rabbani and Alexander, 2009). •Stimulants include:

- dextroamphetamine (Dexadrine) - methylphenidate (Ritalin; Concerta) - dexmethylphenidate (Focalin)- Adderall

•Other medications: •SNRI:

- atomoxetine (Strattera)•Antidepressants:

- buproprion (Wellbutrin)- desipramine (Norpramin)- nortriptyline (Pamelor)- imipramine (Tofranil)

•Therapeutic Effects of SNRI•Inhibit reuptake of norepinephrine

•Potentially addictive•Long-term use can lead to cardiovascular, digestive, endocrine, neurologic, and psychiatric side effects•Side effects include:

- insomnia- anorexia- weight loss- tachycardia- temporary decrease in the rate of growth

•Interactions:- over-the-counter medications that contain sympathomimetic agents

•Maintain diet

•Daily routine/Activities of daily living

•Medication compliance

•Parent’s Experiences and Feelings

- Medication use is controversial.

- Many parents feel that medicating their children is not a way to deal with the symptoms of ADHD or

that the medication will change the child’s personality.

- It is important for health care professionals to educate parents about medication and any alternative treatments if the parents are against a

medication therapy.

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Child with ADHD. Retrieved November 30, 2009, from: http://www.free-pressrelease.com/members/members_pic/200811/img/1227544921.jpg.

Child with ADHD. Retrieved November 30, 2009, from: http://neuronarrative.files.wordpress.com/2008/12/ritalin-sr-20mg-full.jpg.

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