Intermediate
Technical
IVT
developmental surveillance
Ongoing monitoring of child development through routine care visits, distinct from formal screening tools.
Full Definition
The continuous process of monitoring child development during regular pediatric visits through observation, history-taking, and informal assessment. Unlike formal developmental screening, surveillance relies on clinical judgment and parental concerns to identify potential delays. It includes tracking growth patterns, behavioral observations, and developmental progress between formal assessments. Surveillance findings may trigger referral for comprehensive evaluation or formal screening tools.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from formal screening tools in documentation
In Context
- "Developmental surveillance revealed concerns about language acquisition at the 18-month visit." — Well-child examination note
- "The AAP recommends developmental surveillance at every well-child visit." — Clinical practice guideline
Also known as
developmental monitoring
ongoing assessment
Contrasted with
developmental screening
Don't confuse with
developmental screening
diagnostic assessment