Inflammatory bowel disease in children: an overview for pediatric healthcare providers

Abstract

This article provides an overview of the clinical findings of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and the more common medication and treatment options that are available for children and adolescents with Crohn disease and colitis. Increasing awareness and education about Crohn disease and colitis among nurses and healthcare providers is vital. When healthcare providers are able to recognize the signs and symptoms of IBD, earlier referrals can be made and effective treatments can be initiated. As the mother of a child with colitis, the sister of a patient with Crohn disease, and a sufferer of Crohn disease myself, I write this article from both personal experience and clinical practice as a registered nurse, hoping it will be helpful to you.