This text provides comprehensive coverage of all aspects of pediatric nursing relevant to the practical/vocational nurse. Discussion of current issues and trends includes family and cultural considerations, as well as patient/family teaching and community/home care. A separate unit on growth and development focuses on health promotion and nutrition, providing a solid foundation for understanding nursing care for common disorders. The text is presented in a clear, readable writing style to hold the students' interest and promote understanding. Nursing care stresses assessment and intervention based on NANDA diagnoses. Numerous boxes, tables, and illustrations add visual appeal, as well as support and summarize the narrative. Common disorders are presented by body system; this organization provides a logical framework that can be blended with a medical-surgical text in programs using a life-span approach. Nursing process framework includes data collection, goals and expected outcomes, and nursing interventions. Stresses the LPN/LVN role in gathering comprehensive assessment data to assist in developing diagnoses and evaluating effectiveness of care. Focus on family teaching encourages health promotion and self care. Addresses cultural/religious considerations to ensure that the child and family's beliefs and practices are incorporated in care. Discusses home and community-based care to prepare students to work in these now common settings. Pediatric Pearls provide practical tips and alert students to important considerations for care. Case studies and corresponding care plans provide clear guidelines for individualizing care to meet specific patient needs. Learning aids in each chapter include learning objectives, key terms, and key concepts to help students focus on essential information; critical thinking questions included at the end of each chapter promote the development of decision-making skills.