Introduction to Nursing Diagnosis: Disorganized Infant Behavior
Nursing Diagnosis: Disorganized Infant Behavior is used when the infant is unable to engage in purposeful activity due to disorganized behavior patterns. This diagnosis can be made based on observations of the infant’s interactions with their environment, or by using standardized scales like the Infant Behavior Questionnaire (IBQ).
Nursing Diagnosis Definition
Disorganized infant behavior is defined as “a pattern of behavior characterized by a lack of predictability and consistency; often accompanied by poor coordination/dyspraxia and lack of organization/direction.”
Defining Characteristics
Subjective Characteristics
- Easily overwhelmed
- Inconsistent responses
- Poor ability to initiate and sustain behaviors
- Difficulty transitioning from one activity or environment to another.
Objective Characteristics
- Impaired ability to self-regulate behavior
- Incoordination
- Poor limit-setting abilities
- Difficulty problem-solving
This diagnosis is associated with multiple factors including the infant's personality, the caregiver-infant relationship, and the environment in which the infant is being raised.
Risk Population
Infants born to mothers who were abused, exposed to substance abuse while pregnant, or exposed to traumatic events while in the womb may be at an increased risk for developing disorganized behavior. Premature or low birth weight babies are at higher risk, as are those with a history of neglect or abuse.
Associated Problems
Infants with disorganized behavior may be more likely to suffer from delayed physical, cognitive and emotional development. They may also have difficulty regulating their emotions and managing their impulses.
Suggestions for Use
This diagnosis should be applied when an infant exhibits disorganized behavior that impairs the infant’s ability to engage in functional and purposeful activities.
Suggested Alternative NANDA Nursing Diagnoses
These include: Ineffective Self-Regulation, Stress Overload, Impaired Cognitive Performance, and Cognitive Impairment.
Usage Tips
When assessing an infant for disorganized behavior, it is important to take into consideration any physical, environmental, or social factors that may be contributing to the problem.
NOC Results
The infant may achieve increased independence and improved problem solving skills as a result of treatment. Other potential NOC outcomes include improved affect regulation, improved adaptive behavior, and improved parental-child interaction.
NIC Interventions
Interventions for Disorganized Infant Behavior should focus on helping the child regulate their emotions, providing consistent limits, teaching problem-solving skills, and improving the parent-child relationship.
Conclusion
Nursing Diagnosis: Disorganized Infant Behavior can be a difficult diagnosis to make due to its wide range of signs and symptoms. It is important for healthcare providers to assess for all potential factors that may be contributing to the disorganized behavior, and to provide individualized treatments that focus on both the child and parents.
FAQs
- What is Nursing Diagnosis: Disorganized Infant Behavior?
Nursing Diagnosis: Disorganized Infant Behavior is a pattern of behavior characterized by a lack of predictability and consistency; often accompanied by poor coordination and lack of organization. - What are the defining characteristics of this diagnosis?
The defining characteristics of this diagnosis include easily overwhelmed, inconsistent responses, poor ability to initiate and sustain behaviors, and difficulty transitioning from one activity or environment to another. - What are the associated problems?
Infants with disorganized behavior may be more likely to suffer from delayed physical, cognitive and emotional development, difficulty regulating their emotions, and managing their impulses.
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