Dr Hall is professor of Clinical Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, and section head, Program for Children with Medically Complex Needs, Monroe Carell Jr Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville.
Persistent agitation in children with neurologic impairments
July 1st 2017Crying and agitation for no apparent reason in children with severe neurologic impairment is a common and frustrating problem for parents and providers alike. A methodical approach is helpful in dealing with this problem, yet sometimes the cause is not apparent, even after a thorough search. It is helpful to explain to parents and caretakers that the cause of the distress may take some time to figure out, and that diagnosis is often difficult. However, in most cases, a satisfactory treatment can be found.