How do primary health-care practitioners identify and manage communication impairments in preschool children?
Insights
Primary healthcare practitioners recognize the importance of early identification of communication impairments (CIs) in preschool children. However, further training and improved health system support are needed for effective CI management.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Speech-Language Pathology
Background:
- Communication impairments (CIs) in preschool children are prevalent and can lead to long-term issues if not addressed early.
- Early detection and intervention are crucial for mitigating the adverse effects of CIs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess primary healthcare practitioners' knowledge, training, and practices regarding the identification and management of CIs in preschool-aged children.
- To identify barriers to effective referral and management of CIs within the primary care setting.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 277 primary healthcare practitioners in Sydney.
- The survey evaluated practitioners' understanding of CI 'red flags', management protocols, and use of developmental surveillance tools.
Main Results:
- Most practitioners understood the significance of early CI detection, with 80% correctly describing management approaches.
- Only 8% identified all 'red flags' for communication development. Developmental surveillance tool quality was variable, and one-third reported inadequate training.
- Key barriers to referral included long waiting times, service availability, and cost.
Conclusions:
- Primary healthcare practitioners acknowledge the importance of early CI identification but require enhanced training and support.
- Improving developmental surveillance quality and addressing health system barriers are essential for an integrated response to preschool CIs.
Abstract:
Communication impairments (CIs) in preschool children are common and can have long-term adverse consequences if not detected and treated early. This study investigated the knowledge, training and practice of primary health-care practitioners in the identification and management of CIs in preschool-aged children. A cross-sectional survey of 277 primary health-care practitioners in the Inner West and South West Sydney was undertaken. The majority of practitioners surveyed understood the importance of early identification of CIs. Eight per cent ofpractitioners correctly identified all of the 'red flags' for verbal and non-verbal communication. The majority (80%) correctly described the management of a typical case presentation. Two-thirds of practitioners reported using a tool in their practice for developmental surveillance, but the quality of surveillance tools was variable. One-third felt their training in this area was poor and 90% indicated they would like further training. Barriers to referral included waiting times, availability and cost of services. We concluded that primary health-care practitioners are aware that CIs are significant and they need to be identified early. There are opportunities for further training and promoting high-quality developmental surveillance in primary care. In addition, there are broader health system issues that include promotion of an integrated response to the detection and management of CIs.
More Related Videos
06:16Involving Individuals with Developmental Language Disorder and Their Parents/Carers in Research Priority Setting
Published on: June 6, 2020
10:11Portable Intermodal Preferential Looking IPL: Investigating Language Comprehension in Typically Developing Toddlers and Young Children with Autism
Published on: December 14, 2012
Related Concept Videos
01:25Learning Disabilities
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...
01:21Barriers to Effective Communication II
Cultural barriers:
Differences in values, beliefs, religion, knowledge, and tradition can significantly impact communication. Awareness of nonverbal cues is critical, especially when conversing with a patient from a different culture. What appears appropriate in one culture may be inappropriate in another.
Semantic barriers:
As a result of their tendency to use...
01:30Primary Healthcare Services
In 1978, international leaders convened in Alma-Ata, Kazakhstan, for what would be a pivotal event in global health. The Alma-Ata Declaration was the first to call...
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
01:25Role of Communication in the Nursing Process I: Assessment and Diagnosis
The nursing process considers the patient's emotional and physical well-being. The process can be repeated or stopped at any point if judged essential. Assessment is the first step in the nursing...
01:30Barriers to Effective Communication I
Communication barriers include the following:
Physiological barriers: They are limitations caused by a person's health condition or disability, such as hearing loss, poor eyesight, illness, or unconsciousness. An example to overcome this...