Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 19, 2026

Measuring the Functional Abilities of Children Aged 3-6 Years Old with Observational Methods and Computer Tools
Published on: June 20, 2020
Developing rigour in observation of the sick child: Part 1
1School of Nursing & Midwifery, University of Southampton.
This study introduces foundational principles for rigorous observation of sick children, emphasizing continuing professional development for nurses. Subsequent parts will detail specific nursing observation techniques.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nursing
- Clinical Observation Skills
Background:
- Continuing professional development is crucial for healthcare professionals.
- Rigorous observation is fundamental to effective patient care, especially for vulnerable populations like sick children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish the basic principles of rigorous observation in pediatric care.
- To serve as the foundational component of a larger series on nursing observations.
Main Methods:
- This article provides a theoretical analysis of general observational principles.
- It lays the groundwork for subsequent practical applications in nursing.
Main Results:
- Identifies core tenets for systematic and accurate patient assessment.
- Establishes a framework for understanding the nuances of observing sick children.
Conclusions:
- Mastering basic observational principles is essential before advancing to specific nursing techniques.
- This foundational knowledge supports enhanced clinical judgment and improved patient outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Naturalistic Observations
Data Collection III
The principles to begin the physical assessment include conducting a comprehensive or problem-related history in a quiet, well-lit room, emphasizing privacy and comfort for the patient.
Assessment of Respiration
Subjective Assessment: Nurses interview the patient to gather information directly during the subjective assessment. It includes questions about the individual's medical history, medications, and symptoms, focusing on past respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD,...
Guidelines For Measuring Vital Signs
Before taking a patient's vital signs, a nurse would consider and assess the patient's comfort level and ensure appropriate equipment is available.
Techniques of therapeutic communication I: Active Listening, Sharing Observations, Validation, and Using Touch
Therapeutic communication is not the same as social interaction. Social interaction has no goal or purpose and consists of casual information sharing, whereas therapeutic communication has a plan or purpose for the conversation. Therapeutic...
Sputum Studies II: Culture and Sensitivity
Sputum culture and sensitivity is a medical procedure used to diagnose bacterial infections in the respiratory tract and select the most appropriate antibiotics for treatment. This process involves analyzing sputum samples of thick and opaque secretions produced in the lungs and airways. These samples are collected from patients and then sent to the laboratory for analysis.
The test can identify various pathogens responsible for respiratory infections, including Streptococcus,...
