Child Screening Essay

Screening is the first step in addressing any concerns in a child’s development. Healthcare providers and parents should continue surveillance and screening through childhood; screening tools should be used whenever concerns arises about a child’s developmental (Lee, Lu, Allan, Yeh, & Chang, 2015). American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has suggested evidence-based screening tools improve early detection, causing the use of screening tools to increase (Sheldrick et al., 2016). According to a survey by AAP, there have not been improvements in developmental screening in primary care setting; pediatricians are not using effective screening methods for their patients (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2006). Thomas, Spragins, Mazloum, Cronkhite, & Maru (2016) conducted a study that suggested that health care professionals (1) override evidence-based screening results with their informal judgment; and/or (2) assistance is needed with making referrals and understanding tests. Based on literature, screening policies need to be mandated and standard for each child, for the

Parents’ role is critical for professionals because their observations and reports are considered at checkups. Parental report of skills has shown to be helpful in predicting developmental problems, despite barriers that exist (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2001). Barriers can be overcome through education to parents about how to use instruments that can help with evaluation of children (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2001 & Mackrides & Ryherd, 2011). Winter, Morawska, & Sanders (2012) conducted a study where parents were assessed for knowledge of child development and milestones; results indicated that increasing knowledge about child development processes and milestones is important. Involving parents in their child’s development process can lead to earlier recognition of any developmental milestones being