Screening for inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity in children with haemophilia: A quality improvement intervention.

Abstract

Children with haemophilia have been reported with increased rates of inattention (IN) and hyperactivity/impulsivity (HI) and, therefore, are particularly vulnerable to poor social and academic outcomes. To examine the benefit of utilizing a formal screening process for IN/HI in children with haemophilia during comprehensive clinic visits using a quality improvement approach. At a single haemophilia treatment centre, screening for psychosocial issues was expanded and formalised to include (1) the Conners 3rd Edition (Conners3) screening tool for IN/HI symptoms administered during the standard psychosocial assessment (SPA) by the social worker and school advocacy coordinator, (2) formal pathways to diagnosis and intervention as indicated including psychology consultation, psychological testing, or referral to community-based mental health professionals, and in-person advocacy assistance in the patient's community school. Forty-four patients, age 9.9±4.8 years (range 3-16) were targeted. The initial screening approach was modified to improve the communication with caretakers during assessments and streamline diagnostic pathways if no, moderate or significant behavioural concerns were identified. Eleven patients had pre-existing mental health diagnoses. Thirteen of the remaining 33 patients (39.4%) received a new mental health diagnosis, ADHD in 8/33 (24.2%). Of the total cohort, 54.5% were found to have a mental health diagnosis. The rate of ADHD (29.5%) was significantly higher than reported in the general population. The described process, developed through a QI approach, allowed formal and objective screening for IN/HI, streamlined a pathway to diagnosis and intervention, and identified undiagnosed disabilities in children with haemophilia improving their access to services.