Learning objectives
On completion of this chapter, the reader will be able to:
discuss the normal growth and development (developmental milestones) related to children in rural communities
define and identify common health issues related to children and adolescents in rural communities, including respiratory disorders, injury/accidents and burns
identify health promotion practices such as access to and application of appropriate screening tests as well as age-relevant immunisation requirements
briefly discuss issues relating to mental and sexual health in relation to adolescence in rural communities
describe and discuss access issues that children and adolescents in rural communities have in relation to accessing metropolitan health facilities.
Key words
Childhood conditions, mental health, adolescents, immunisation, growth and development
Chapter overview
This chapter provides a brief snapshot of children and adolescents in varying contexts of practice in rural environments. Common childhood conditions and aspects of adolescent health will be presented in conjunction with case studies and reflective questions to facilitate practical application.
Growth and development
Factors affecting growth and development fall into two main categories: heredity and genetic and environmental factors. In the early prenatal environment, the uterus shields the foetus from external adverse conditions, which may include maternal nutritional deficiencies, metabolic or endocrine disturbances, infectious diseases such as rubella, Rh incompatibility, smoking, alcohol and drugs. In the postnatal period, the environment determines the pace and pattern of growth and development. During this time, nutrition, infections, trauma, socioeconomic level, climate, cultural influences, emotional factors, chronic diseases and growth potentials will lay the groundwork for development of the child.