Week 5: Entry 2

Yesterday I performed my first subjective assessment to a mother of a beautiful 19mth old little girl who had only just started to walk since being referred into the public system. i think it ran smoothly and I got all the information I required to write up the subjective aspect of her report. One area I think could have improved was my questioning about the birth history. I got enough essential information but could have included more questions just to clarify for my own understanding. This girl has just been diagnosed with benign joint hypermobility syndrome which is likely to be a significant factor in her gross motor delay. However, is now only a month behind for her age and fine motor skills are age appropriate so there were no major areas of concern. One thing I did find interesting was that the rheumatologist who diagnosed her hypermobility syndrome gave the mother a very worst case scanario prognosis saying she may never be able to write and will always struggle with gross and fine motor development. The mother said she was in hysterics after hearing this and it was only when she saw the physio who reassured her that she was doing well and making good progress that she didn't feel so concerned. From my perspective, I have seen many children who are far more delayed than this little girl and I think it was unecessary of the doctor to blow the situation out of proportion. Although it is important to ensure parents understand the condition and potential risks, I don't think this was the best way to help the family.