Special Topics in Primary Care: Developmental Delays (IHP)
Introduction
The prevalence of neurodevelopmental disorders has increased in recent years. It is estimated that some degree of intellectual disability is present in 1%-3% of the general population (Patel et al., 2020, p. S23). Early detection of intellectual disabilities and global developmental delay is an essential function and responsibility of the primary care provider and all pediatric health care professionals. It is critical for the wellbeing of children and their families.
This course is designed for primary care providers, mental health providers, and allied health professionals. It will provide information on global developmental delays and intellectual disabilities, emphasizing the necessity of early detection of these neurodevelopmental disorders. In addition, the course aims to provide the learner with the knowledge and tools to assess, identify, and provide ongoing care for patients who have a diagnosis of global developmental delay or intellectual disability.
Target Audience
This program is intended for:
- Nurses/Nurse Practitioners
- Physicians
- Physicians Assistants / Associates (PA)
- Psychologists
- Social Workers
- Speech-Language Pathologists
- IPCE Credit
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Categorize diagnostic criteria for intellectual disabilities and recognize the importance of early identification.
- Recognize the importance of developmental surveillance, developmental screening, and identifying factors to consider when administering and interpreting these results.
- Recognize the main components of a diagnostic evaluation and the primary care provider's role in the evaluation process.
- Identify risk factors, common etiologies, co-morbid conditions for global developmental delay and intellectual disabilities.
- Defend the primary care provider’s role in managing the care of patients with global developmental delay and intellectual disabilities.
Kimberly Dunn, CPNP, PMHS:
Kimberly Dunn, CPNP, PMHS, is a Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Mental Health Specialist who graduated from the MGH Institute of Health Professions in 2001. She has worked in Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics for 17 years, including nine years in the Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics at Boston Children's Hospital. She currently owns her own practice in the MetroWest region of Massachusetts, specializing in neurodevelopmental disorders.
The planners and faculty of this educational activity have no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.
Activity information
Activity Name: Special Topics in Primary Care: Developmental Delays
Activity Format: Internet Enduring Activity
Accreditation Statements:
In support of improving patient care, MGH Institute of Health Professions is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.
Criteria for successful completion include completion of all course modules, course assessments, and the final course survey.