What are the recommended annual physical screenings and assessments for an 11-year-old male?

Recommended Annual Physical Screenings and Assessments for an 11-Year-Old Male

For an 11-year-old male, annual physical examination should include comprehensive physical assessment, blood cholesterol screening, vision screening, and assessment for depression and substance use.

Core Physical Assessment Components

General Assessment

• Complete physical examination including height, weight, and BMI calculation 1
• Blood pressure measurement 1
• Vision screening using instrument-based screening (can be offered at this age) 1
• Hearing assessment with audiogram and tympanometry 1

Laboratory Screening

• Blood cholesterol screening (specifically recommended for children 9-11 years of age) 1
• Hematocrit or hemoglobin screening based on risk assessment 1

Behavioral and Mental Health Screening

• Depression screening (recommended annually for children 11 years and older) 1
• Alcohol and drug use assessment using the CRAFFT (car, relax, alone, forget, friends, trouble) screening questionnaire 1

Developmental and Social Assessment

• Cognitive development and academic functioning assessment 1
• Assessment of adaptive functioning (daily living skills) 1
• Psychiatric assessment for ASD, ADHD/ADD, anxiety, and psychotic disorders 1
• Psychomotor assessment if indicated 1

Oral Health

• Dental evaluation 1
• Fluoride varnish application (recommended through 5 years of age, so no longer needed at 11) 1

Immunization Status

• Review and update immunizations according to the current Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices schedule 1

Health Education and Counseling

• Education on healthy eating, physical activity, and exercise 1
• Guidance on responsible behaviors and avoidance of risky behaviors 1
• Education on injury prevention (seat belts, protective helmets, etc.) 1

Special Considerations

For Children with Specific Conditions

• Children with diabetes: Consider annual comprehensive foot exam if the child has had type 1 diabetes for 5 years 1
• Children with genetic syndromes: Additional screenings may be required based on specific syndrome 1

Implementation Approach

1. Schedule annual preventive health care visit

   • Ensure visit occurs between 11-12 years of age
   • Conduct in a medical home setting for coordinated care 1

2. Utilize confidential screening tools

   • Implement trigger questionnaires or clinical interviews 1
   • Ensure confidentiality while encouraging family involvement 1

3. Provide appropriate interventions and referrals

   • Address identified behavioral, emotional, and medical risks
   • Make necessary referrals to specialists when indicated

Important Caveats

• Sports physicals conducted in schools should not replace comprehensive annual well visits 1
• Confidentiality is critical for adolescents, but family involvement should be encouraged when appropriate 1
• Office systems should prompt annual screening when adolescents present for urgent care visits 1
• Screening recommendations may change based on family history and individual risk factors 2

This comprehensive approach to the annual physical for an 11-year-old male ensures appropriate screening, early identification of potential issues, and promotes overall health and well-being during this important developmental period.