Peer Responses:
- Length: A minimum of 180 words per post, not including references
- Citations: At least two high-level scholarly reference in APA per post from within the last 5 years
- Relate to another journal reading
For this class 594 I was able to do soap notes on HEENT adults, adult wellness, teen HEENT, and geriatric CV. I need to work more on pediatric soap notes and other specialties.
To successfully complete your program, it’s essential to prioritize and focus on specific SOAP note areas. Your areas of concentration include pediatric SOAP notes, encompassing infant, child, and teen wellness, as well as specialty SOAP notes in pulmonary, gastrointestinal (GI), and musculoskeletal areas.
One of the most significant milestones in a young woman’s life is her first menstrual cycle. I had the opportunity to meet a patient named who was 14 years old when she experienced her first menstrual period. Her mother took her to the clinic because she was anxious and concerned about what she was experiencing.
The patient described feeling unprepared and scared because she didn’t know what to expect. She was worried that something might be wrong with her, especially because her menstrual flow was heavier than she anticipated and accompanied by mild cramps.
During the consultation, I reassured the patient and her mother that experiencing some anxiety and uncertainty about the first period is entirely normal. I provided them with information about what to expect during puberty and the menstrual cycle, including (Ramaiyer et al., 2023).
Menstrual Cycle Basics: Explained that a menstrual cycle is a natural process where the uterus sheds its lining, resulting in menstrual bleeding. A typical cycle lasts about 28 days, but it can vary from person to person (Liang et al., 2023).
Menstrual Flow: Discussed that it’s common for the first few menstrual cycles to be irregular in terms of timing and flow (Liang et al., 2023). Some girls experience lighter periods, while others may have heavier bleeding (Liang et al., 2023).
Menstrual Cramps: Informed the patient that mild cramping during menstruation is normal for many girls and suggested using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen if needed (Liang et al., 2023).
Hygiene and Care: Provided guidance on menstrual hygiene, including using pads or tampons, changing them regularly, and maintaining good personal hygiene to prevent infections (Liang et al., 2023).
Emotional Support: Offered reassurance that it’s okay to feel a mix of emotions during this time and encouraged open communication with her mother or another trusted adult about any concerns or questions she might have.
What Might I Do Differently:
If I were to handle a similar situation with another young patient experiencing her first menstrual cycle, here are a few things I might do differently:
Preparation: I would discuss puberty and menstruation during routine well-child visits before the onset of menstruation to better prepare young girls and their parents (Ramaiyer et al., 2023). This proactive approach can help alleviate anxiety and provide girls with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate this milestone confidently (Ramaiyer et al., 2023).
Education Materials: Provide informational handouts or resources about puberty, menstruation, and menstrual hygiene that she and her mother can refer to at home (Ramaiyer et al., 2023).
Follow-Up: Schedule a follow-up appointment or check-in with the patient in a few months after her first period to address any new questions or concerns and ensure she’s managing well.
Family Involvement: Encourage open communication between the patient and her mother about puberty and menstrual health, emphasizing the importance of support and understanding during this transitional period (Ramaiyer et al., 2023).
References
Liang, J., Ali, F., Ramaiyer, M., & Borahay, M. A. (2023). Determinants and assessment of menstrual blood flow. Current Epidemiology Reports, 10(4), 210–220. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40471-023-00332-0
Ramaiyer, M., Lulseged, B., Michel, R., Ali, F., Liang, J., & Borahay, M. A. (2023). Menstruation in the usa. Current Epidemiology Reports, 10(4), 186–195. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40471-023-00333-z
