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This new third edition covers conditions seen in the primary care of children, emphasizing prevention as well as management of problems from the nurse practitioner perspective. It begins with an overview of the status of children in the United States and a review of developmental theory, followed by guidelines on how to assess children and families. A significant portion of the text is devoted to issues of daily living that are a part of every child's growth and issues that could lead to health problems (nutrition, toilet training) unless appropriate guidance is given. Disease processes often encountered by the pediatric primary provider are addressed through discussions of assessment, differential diagnosis, management, and prevention. Written by experienced authors who are familiar with the scope of practice and knowledge base needed by nurse practitioners. Chapters on Complementary Therapies and Environmental Health include content not often found in other pediatric textbooks. Valuable appendices provide information on medications, growth charts, and laboratory values. Informative Resource boxes include websites as well as organizations and printed materials useful to nurse practitioners and their patients. Discussions of cultural factors facilitate a clear understanding of child health. Nursing Diagnosis boxes at the end of most chapters contain the latest (2003-2004) NANDA nursing diagnoses for that chapter. A new chapter on Practice Management covers organization of practice, tips for billing compliance with medical standards, working with other providers, and development of employment contracts. The latest practice guidelines are included from the American Academy of Pediatrics, Agency for Healthcare Policy and Research, and other expert sources. Updated information examines the health status of children in the United States and focuses on the issues of greatest concern for both parents and primary caregivers. More tables and decision-making guidelines throughout focus on differential diagnosis decision-making. Immunization Recommendations have been updated. A revised medication appendix includes newly approved drugs. An updated and revised table on breastfeeding lists contraindicated drugs. A new internal design makes material easier to read.