
Time has always been a precious resource in the healthcare industry. With staffing shortages and waves of COVID and other illnesses, time seems to be at even more of a premium. When pediatricians and pediatric nurses speed through appointments, patients’ fears may increase, their cooperation may be impaired, and they may even experience more discomfort. It is critical to note that patient comfort is not a frill or superfluous; rather, it is a known factor that can help or hinder medical outcomes. Having a child life specialist on board can add extra support to both the child, child’s family, and medical team to ensure that patient trust and comfort, critical components of trauma-informed care, remain at the forefront.