Not all patients are the same, and therefore not all assessments can be completed in the same manner and using the same methods. Special populations include children, pregnant women, and the elderly, among others. Erikson’s Psychosocial Stages can be utilized in determining how to complete an assessment. However, there are also certain screenings and abnormalities that must be considered for particular age groups. An effective primary healthcare provider will adjust his or her assessment technique to fit the needs of the patient.
Choose one of Erikson’s Psychosocial Stages. Think about the approximate ages of patients at each stage and the complete physical assessment for your chosen stage. How will you conduct the assessment? What psychosocial developments do you need to keep in mind? What additional testing and screenings will you need to perform? Discuss two abnormalities found in the age group. Finally, discuss how you have been successful assessing patients in this psychosocial stage. Then, choose a classmate who has discussed a different stage and reply to him or her, discussing the similarities and differences between the stage you choose and the stage he or she choose. How will those similarities and differences impact your assessment?
Sample Solution
