Nursing Care Plans Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood disorders and can continue through adolescence and adulthood. Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that is more frequent and severe than is typically observed in individuals at a comparable level of development (APA, 2000). The patient with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder has difficulty focusing his attention, engaging in quiet passive activities, or both. Some patients have an attention deficit without hyperactivity; they're less likely to be diagnosed and receive treatment. Although attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is present at birth, diagnosis before age 4 or 5 is difficult unless the child exhibits severe symptoms. Some patients, however, aren't diagnosed until they reach adulthood. Males are three times more likely to be affected than females. The presence of other psychiatric disorders also needs to be determined, this disorder occurs in roughly 3% to 5% of school-age children.

Causes for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is thought to be a physiologic brain disorder with a familial tendency. Some studies indicate that it may result from altered neurotransmitter levels in the brain. Scientists are not sure what causes ADHD, although many studies suggest that genes play a large role. Like many other illnesses, ADHD probably results from a combination of factors. In addition to genetics, researchers are looking at possible environmental factors, and are studying how brain injuries, nutrition, and the social environment might contribute to ADHD

Predisposing Factors Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Complications for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Emotional and social complications can result from the child's impulsive behavior, inattentiveness, and disorganization in school. Hyperactivity can also lead to poor nutrition.

Assessment Nursing Care Plans Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

The patient is usually characterized as a fidgeted and a daydreamer. He may also be described as inattentive and lazy. The parents may state that their child is intelligent but that his school or work performance is sporadic. They may also report that he has a tendency to jump quickly from one partly completed project, thought, or task to another. If the child is younger, the parents may note that he has difficulty waiting in line, remaining in his seat, waiting his turn, or concentrating on one activity long enough to complete it.  An older child or an adult may be described as impulsive and easily distracted by irrelevant thoughts, sights, or sounds. He may also be characterized as emotionally labile, inattentive, or prone to daydreaming. His disorganization becomes apparent when, for example, he has difficulty meeting deadlines and keeping track of school or work tools and materials.

• Difficulties in performing age-appropriate tasks
• Highly distractible
• Extremely limited attention span
• Shifts from one uncompleted activity to another
• Impulsivity, or deficit in inhibitory control, is common
• Difficulty forming satisfactory interpersonal relationships
• Disruptive and intrusive behaviors inhibit acceptable social interaction
• Difficulty complying with social norms
• Some children with ADHD are very aggressive or oppositional. Others exhibit more regressive and immature behaviors.
• Low frustration tolerance and outbursts of temper are common.
• Boundless energy, exhibiting excessive levels of activity, restlessness, and fidgeting
• Often described as “perpetual motion machines,” continuously running, jumping, wiggling, or squirming
• They experience a greater than average number of accidents, from minor mishaps to more serious incidents that may lead to physical injury or the destruction of property.

Predisposing Factors Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Common Nursing Diagnoses and Interventions for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)