Watch Me Grow: A Well-Child Examination Protocol to Improve Preventive Care in Dominican Children.

Morbidity and mortality rates among Dominican children are a serious health concern worsened by a lack of preventive care that hinders early identification and avoidance of illnesses. The purpose of this study was to improve health outcomes in Dominican children by implementing a well-child examination (WCE) protocol entitled "Watch Me Grow." A quantitative, descriptive methodology was used. Twelve adults involved in pediatric care with the Foundation for Peace organization in the Dominican Republic were designated to receive WCE protocol education, and 159 children received WCEs and health promotion teaching. No statistically significant improvement in WCE knowledge was noted. The most common abnormal findings were unhealthy weight (47.8%), dental caries (46.5%), low vision (17.0%), and elevated blood pressure (15.7%). The WCE protocol facilitated early identification of many pediatric health concerns and may help diminish the potential future impact of illnesses on Dominican children. Copyright © 2018 National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.