Part II: Clinical Practice Guidelines for Adolescents and Young Adults With Down Syndrome: 12-21 Years

Susan Van Cleve, MSN, RN, CPNP; Sheila Cannon, MEd; William I. Cohen, MD

J Pediatr Health Care. 2006;20(3):198-205.

Anticipatory Guidance

Discuss issues related to transition to adulthood.
Review plans for school placement and plans after high school graduation. Review future vocational plans.
Discuss plans for alternative long-term living arrangements such as Community Living Arrangements. Parents should update estate planning and custody arrangements.
Emphasize the importance of a well-balanced diet and routine exercise.
Encourage good dental hygiene with twice-a-day tooth brushing. Reinforce the importance of good self-care skills (grooming, dressing) and functional skills (money handling).
Continue subacute bacterial endocarditis prophylaxis in adolescents with cardiac defects.
Encourage social and recreational programs with friends.
Discuss sexuality and socialization and the need for and degree of supervision required. Review options for contraception if the teen is sexually active. Make recommendations for routine gynecologic care.
Monitor the family's need for supportive care or counseling, respite care, and behavior management techniques.
Adolescents may register for voting and Selective Service at age 18 years.
Facilitate transfer to adult health care.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

Cite this: Part II: Clinical Practice Guidelines for Adolescents and Young Adults With Down Syndrome: 12-21 Years - Medscape - May 01, 2006.

Introduction
Health Conditions
Puberty and Sexuality in Adolescents With DS
Sexuality
Education and Self-determination
Transition Process
Health Care
Health Care Guidelines
History
Physical Examination
Laboratory Tests and Consultations
Anticipatory Guidance
Summary
References

Comments

Commenting is limited to medical professionals. To comment please Log-in.

Comments on Medscape are moderated and should be professional in tone and on topic. You must declare any conflicts of interest related to your comments and responses. Please see our Commenting Guide for further information. We reserve the right to remove posts at our sole discretion.