Children with chronic conditions, developmental disorders, and birth defects represent a sizeable minority of American children—as many as one in five. Often their families have financial or other issues limiting their access to appropriate care, thus limiting their adult prospects as well. Compounding the problem, many valuable resources concerning this population are difficult to access although they may be critical to the researchers, practitioners, and policymakers creating standards for quality care and services. In response, the Handbook of Children with Special Health Care Needs assembles research, applied, and policy perspectives reflecting the range of children’s problems requiring special services. Widely studied conditions (e.g., communication disorders, substance abuse) and those receiving lesser attention (e.g., tuberculosis) are covered, as are emerging ideas such as the “medical home” concept of continuity of care. Its interdisciplinary outlook makes the Handbook of Children with Special Health Care Needs a vital, forward-looking text for developmental psychologists, pediatricians, early childhood and special education researchers and practitioners, disability researchers, policymakers, and advocates, and providers for children with special health care needs.

Caring for Children with Special Healthcare Needs and Their Families: A Handbook for Healthcare Professionals provides a guide for addressing the challenges of providing optimal general and routine care for the special needs population. More than just caring for the patients, the text stresses the importance of caring for their families as well. The book begins with chapters on common aspects of this population, including physical or sensory disabilities and developmental and learning disabilities. Subsequent chapters expound on more specific topics related to communication, mobility, emotional issues, quality of life, and end-of-life. Caring for Children with Special Healthcare Needs and Their Families is a must-have book for family and pediatric nurse practitioners, registered nurses, healthcare technicians, physician assistants and social services professionals who see these patients regularly as part of their daily patient load.

This concise manual offers best practice guidance on dental treatment of pediatric patients with special health care needs (CSHCN). The straightforward approaches described will enable clinicians to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care to children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Readers will find up-to-date information on case-based treatment planning, alternative caries management strategies, the use of behavioral and pharmacological interventions to facilitate delivery of quality treatment, and a team approach to care. Practical clinical tips are provided on how to achieve and maintain oral health, including good oral hygiene and nutrition. A systematic framework for patient assessment and interaction with medical colleagues will assist readers in understanding when dental protocols must be altered. Other important topics include techniques for effective communication with CSHCN, behavioral strategies to improve treatment acceptance, the role of occupational therapy techniques, the sensory adapted dental environment, and the use protective stabilization.

"...is a compilation of life lessons learned by the parents of a child with significant special needs. The book shares critical strategies and practical advice to help you navigate the maze of financial, educational and emotional decisions you will face each day as a parent or caregiver. This handbook is designed to help you focus on what is most important in your life as you deal with the constant challenges. You will learn how to survive and even thrive while providing the best for your child."--P. [4] of cover.