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Assessment of the child
Assessment is the collection of data, both subjective and objective, which aims to achieve a complete picture of the child’s health status. Good assessment is a combination of the interpretation of physical data with the information gained from observation of the child and family and from listening to them.
Interviewing – history taking
Gaining the trust of the child and family is an essential element in developing of an effective therapeutic relationship. Introducing yourself to the child and family with explanations of expected outcomes will put the child and family at ease. Age appropriate language should be used. Questions should be directed at both the child and parent. Young people should have an opportunity to talk in private if they wish. When taking a history, a structured approach should be used. This needs to include: