Ease the Way - Gebauer Patient Comfort Blog

Patient Comfort Is Trauma-Informed Care

By: Morgan O'Leary | On: May 31, 2023

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.

Pediatric Comfort: Keeping School Age and Adolescent Hospital Stays Pleasant

By: Bethany Nock | On: April 15, 2021

Contrary to many beliefs, children are not just mini-adults. Children of all ages are continuously developing physically, psychologically and socially. Whether they are 6 or 16, they react differently than adults when confronted with challenges and changes in their routines. This is especially true when children enter the hospital. Because they may not fully understand what is happening to them, they may become resistant to the care offered. At the same time, family members may be anxious and may unknowingly add to the child’s fears.

6 Tips for Managing the Parents of Younger Pediatric Patients

By: Bethany Nock | On: February 23, 2021

Dealing with hospitalized pediatric patients can be both challenging and rewarding. Depending on the stage of development the child is in, are required to manage his or her hospital stay. But just paying attention to the needs of the child is not enough. Parents and loved ones often show signs of stress and anxiety which can be mirrored in the child’s behavior. Ignoring the child’s loved ones can result in increased feelings of stress and anxiety for the entire family. And this can result in frustration and taxing situations for you!

Poke Plan and Pediatric Comfort Measures: Does Your Hospital Have a Plan?

By: Bethany Nock | On: July 7, 2020

Many adults experience at least some level of anxiety when preparing for a needle procedure — but for young patients, it can be especially traumatic. Often, children’s apprehension originates from a fear of bodily harm, their lack of control over the situation, and their lack of experience undergoing venipuncture.

Celebrating Child Life Specialists

By: Bethany Nock | On: March 10, 2020

The month of March is all about Child Life. Child Life Specialists, that is. These men and women are often the secret ingredient to many successful pediatric departments. As we recognize these professionals this month, let’s shine the spotlight on three reasons why Child Life Specialists are so important to your facility: