Edward R. Christophersen

Pioneers in Pediatric Psychology: Personal Reflections for the Young Professional

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a seasoned clinician in pediatric psychology is that of influencing the training and career paths of young professionals in the healthcare field. The insights offered in this article are meant not only to guide young professionals but also to help them ‘‘pay it forward’’ to the future generations of pediatric psychologists. My personal reflections respectfully shared in this article begin with what I have found to be essential in early education and training and also include ‘‘pearls of wisdom’’ regarding early career development and advancement in the field.

Diagnosis and management of nocturnal enuresis.

The etiology of primary nocturnal enuresis remains somewhat controversial but may include genetic factors, decreased functional bladder capacity, increased diuresis at night, and constipation. Deep sleep and emotional illness usually play only a minimal role. A detailed description of the enuretic episodes should be obtained, and a neurologic examination should be performed as part of the physical evaluation of a child with nocturnal enuresis. In uncomplicated cases, urinalysis and a urine culture are the only required laboratory tests. The specific cause of the nocturnal enuresis usually is not determined. Treatment options include the urine alarm system, pharmacotherapy and complex regimens such as dry-bed training. Treatments are often combined. Nocturnal enuresis eventually resolves in the majority of cases.

The Effect of Informational Feedback on Food Intake of Adult Burn Patients

The effect of informational feedback on the protein and caloric consumption of burn patients was investigated using a multiple-baseline across subjects. The patients were four severely burned adult males who failed to consume sufficient foods to achieve prescribed levels of protein or kilocalories via standard burn unit procedures during recovery. Feedback consisted of informing patients of (a) their prescribed levels of protein and kilocalories, (b) the protein and kilocalorie content of hospital foods and beverages, and (c) their actual intake of protein and kilocalories. Following the provision of feedback, there was an increase in protein and kilocalorie intakes and in the number of days during which prescribed levels for protein and kilocalories were achieved. These results suggest that the informational feedback was effective for improving the oral caloric intake of burn patients.