Introduction: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is part of the behavior and emotions defects group. It is found in approximately 3-5% of schoolchildren. The three basic symptoms are bad and mildly fading concentration, impulsiveness and hyperactivity. The causes can be biochemical, genetic and neurological. Diagnostic determination is carried out according to the symptoms. The complexity of the problem requires a comprehensive approach but some individuals refusing pharmacological treatment motivates us to explore non-pharmacological methods. Purpose: The purpose of this thesis is to explore known non-pharmacological methods of working with children and youth with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and how successful they are and what is the role of nurses in this. Working methods: A descriptive method of work was used. The literature was researched using COBISS.SI bibliographic services and MEDLINE and CINAHL bibliographic base. Articles were selected by reviewing an extract of the contents for relevancy, free availability of the overall article and the time constraints of publications from 2006 onwards (except four sources because of the importance of their contents). Results: Non-pharmacological approaches for discussing the disorder are: cognitively acting therapy where the individual learns to control his behavior; the neuro-feedback method in which the individual has an impact on their own brain activity and learn to control it and parenting programs where parents learn about different kinds of behavioral and educational strategies. In addition to these methods, we have a series of studies that confirm the influence of diet, physical activity, sleeping habits and patterns as well as leisure time and adapting the environment to signs of symptoms of the disorder. The role of nurses according to various foreign authors appears primarily to be connecting the overall processing and cooperation between individual experts as well as between them and the family and child. It is important that a child creates a relationship that is based on trust and respect and helps him to gain more confidence. Stress also plays a big role in supporting the child's family. Discussion and conclusion: Non-pharmacological methods such as cognitively acting therapy, parenting programs and neuro-feedback in connection with a healthy lifestyle and living environment and a well organized family life, can have a very positive influence on a child with an attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The role of nurses in this concept should be as health educator; they should support the whole family; they should have an active role in the team trying to create healthy surroundings and motivate people to live a healthy lifestyle. They can also work successfully in a school environment.
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