NURS 6541 Week 1: Overview of Growth and Development and Genetic Conditions

How many times have you wished you had a crystal ball? How often have you thought, If only I had known…in relation to personal and professional decisions? We all wish we always had the best information and advice available for charting the best path forward.

Sometimes we have the information we need—and sometimes we are that crystal ball for others. Specifically, as a nurse practitioner engaged in pediatric care, you have a significant role in setting young people on a healthy path through life. Certainly, a crystal ball is not among your professional tools. (And how much easier would your work be if it were?) Rather, your knowledge of factors for optimal growth and development, and guidance for families in establishing habits that help children thrive, can support longer, happier, and more productive lives for your pediatric patients.

Understanding what impacts growth and development in positive or adverse ways enables you to both treat specific conditions and promote wellness. Here, too, knowledge is key. Not only in terms of information such as a family’s genetic history, but in working closely with families to learn their ideas of what matters for children’s growth and development. Appreciating and respecting cultural perspectives is vital in creating a foundation of trust for encouraging healthful choices and decisions for children and, as they age into adolescence, by them as well.

This week you will begin with an overview of human growth and development that continues with more depth in the weeks that follow. Through the Week 1 text readings and other Learning Resources, you will also examine fundamentals of pediatric care and analyze the challenges and opportunities this course provides in meeting your career goals. No crystal ball required—just thoughtful consideration of the path you aim to follow in advanced nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

Analyze strengths and challenges related to advanced nursing in pediatric care

Analyze career goals and objectives in pediatrics

Learning Resources

Required Readings (click to expand/reduce)

Required Media (click to expand/reduce)