NCLEX Review Guide: Growth & Development, Growth, Development, and Stages of Life, Communication Approaches

Key Definitions

• Growth refers to quantitative changes in physical size, weight, and height that are measurable and observable over time.
• Development encompasses qualitative changes in function, skills, and abilities including cognitive, emotional, and social maturation.
• Growth and development occur simultaneously but at different rates throughout the lifespan.

Erikson's Psychosocial Development

Infants and Toddlers (0-3 years)

• Use calm, soothing voice tones as infants respond to emotional tone rather than words.
• Maintain consistent caregivers to promote trust and reduce anxiety during procedures.
• Allow toddlers to hold comfort objects and provide simple, concrete explanations using 2-3 word phrases.

Preschoolers (3-5 years)

• Use magical thinking awareness - avoid phrases like "put to sleep" for anesthesia as they may fear not waking up.
• Provide simple, honest explanations and allow hands-on exploration of safe medical equipment.
• Use play therapy and storytelling to explain procedures and reduce anxiety.

School-Age (6-12 years)

• Provide factual, concrete information about procedures and expected sensations.
• Use proper anatomical terms and explain the "why" behind treatments to satisfy their curiosity.
• Encourage questions and involve them in simple decision-making when appropriate.

Adolescents (13-18 years)

• Respect privacy and confidentiality while maintaining appropriate parental involvement.
• Provide detailed information about procedures, risks, and benefits to support informed decision-making.
• Address body image concerns and acknowledge their developing autonomy and independence needs.