This subject extends the student's theoretical knowledge for practice in paediatric nursing. The relationship between scientific and nursing knowledge and informed practice is emphasised. Health breakdown in infants, children and adolescents, related pathophysiology and epidemiology, assessment and diagnostics, and disability are examined. Therapeutic interventions and nursing management for infants, children and adolescents with health breakdown states and disability are also evaluated. Issues related to growth and development, the care of families and the development of paediatric nursing as a specialty are explored.