Those patients with mild disease may only require a single clinic visit, whereas patients with moderate disease may require evaluation over several days to a week. Patients with more severe disease who require closer observation are managed in our Pediatric Care Unit with evaluations usually lasting two weeks or more as dictated by the severity of their disease. Patients living in the Denver metropolitan area and those returning for follow-up are seen in our Pediatric Clinic. Each evaluation begins with a comprehensive history, a review of pertinent medical records and a thorough physical examination. Laboratory testing, procedures and consultations are requested based upon the findings of the initial evaluation and are discussed with the patient and his or her family prior to being ordered.
Every attempt is made to avoid unnecessary duplication of testing.
If needed, a team of specialists including, but not limited to, allergists, immunologists, pulmonologists, otolaryngologists, radiologists, pharmacologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, art therapists, nurses, dieticians, speech therapists and rehabilitation therapists is available for consultation. The findings of these tests, procedures, and consultations are reviewed with each patient's family and any questions that arise are addressed. Our experienced nursing staff provides quality care and ensures that each family is educated thoroughly about their child's illness and gains the necessary skills to manage it effectively. When indicated, our psychosocial team assesses issues pertaining to children with chronic illness such as the impact of illness on the child and family, adjustment in school, treatment adherence, and co-morbid emotional problems that may be affecting the illness. Every psychosocial evaluation is tailored to the specific needs and concerns of each family.