There is a new system for foster children that requires a public health nurse to come out to the home for a visit and to assess the child developmentally. Yesterday morning was our visit. I was given several pamphlets, none of which I need to reference...shaken baby, effects of smoking around babies, car seat safety, why babies cry, etc. The nurse also asked about doctor's appointments and establishing WIC for the baby. Basically she wanted to make sure the child is getting proper medical care and nutrition, and it also gives them extra eyes from professionals on the child's well being. Since these public health visits were originally started due to poor foster children care, this all makes sense.
The assessment was essentially a questionnaire along with some participation on David's part. The nurse told me she isn't fond of this assessment tool because it covers from one month all the way to three months using the same criteria, and those of you whom have raised infants know a lot changes throughout that age range. I was able to answer yes to many questions, and there were quite a few that were no. Nothing concerned the nurse since David is on the one month side of things, and he realistically shouldn't be able to perform all the listed tasks.
I was told the public health nurse will be closing this case. Sometimes cases are left open when there are large concerns, and more visits would be scheduled. I should expect to hear from Early Intervention within the next couple months. They will also be required to come to the home and do an assessment. One thing is for sure...with both the public health nurse and Early Intervention assessments, issues with the children should be caught hopefully early and services put into place to assist that child.
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