This course is a comprehensive introduction to the field of paediatric nursing and provides the student with the theory and skills necessary to care for children during adaptation and maladaptation. The nursing process framework is used for examining families in the childrearing years from infancy through adolescence. The content is examined in the context of individual, societal, cultural, psychological and physical factors. The clinical component will focus on the delivery of nursing care that is adapted to the unique health and developmental needs of children and their families. Health promotion, risk reduction and disease prevention will be emphasized.