Taking a Walk on the Wild Side with ADHD Symptom Management in 6-12 year Olds

Abstract

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has been deemed by literature to be the most prevalent neurobehavioral disorder in children. ADHD is associated with enduring patterns of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that intrudes on activities of daily living and development (CDC,2016). 6.1 million U.S. children had received an ADHD diagnosis by 2016, that is 9.4% of people age 2-17 (Danielson et al., 2018) Treatment for the symptoms of ADHD predominantly involves the use of medications such as stimulants that have unwanted side effects and sometimes limited relief of symptoms. However, current research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends behavior therapy as the first step in treatment of ADHD in children (CDC, 2016). The purpose of this Evidence Based Practice Brief is to take a closer look at the effects of outdoor activity on symptoms of ADHD in school-age children ages 6-12 years. Nurses can use the knowledge from this project in the intervention phase of the nursing process to educate patients, parents and teachers regarding the most effective treatment of ADHD in school-age children. There will be focus on providing ways to close the know-do gap by providing attainable, effective, long-term plans involving outdoor time for ADHD symptom management that nurses and parents alike can put into action.