Because many conversations between healthcare professionals and patients discuss serious issues concerning patient’s health, it is extremely important to make sure that the practitioner uses appropriate communication skills. These discussions should always be kind and informative. You should maintain eye contact, deliver the information with respect and care and be open to the other’s point of view.
Healthcare protocols are changing continuously during these times of the global pandemic. One thing that retains its importance is keeping patients up to date on their immunizations. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has stated that “ensuring immunization services are maintained or reinitiated is essential for protecting individuals and communities from vaccine-preventable diseases and outbreaks and reducing the burden of respiratory illness during the upcoming influenza season”.
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.
When many people think of taking a child to the doctors, even if it is for a routine check-up, the words “fast” and “efficient” are probably not in their top-ten list of adjectives to describe the experience. Although there is an unimaginably long list of variables to consider when keeping a pediatric patient (especially younger ones) calm during the visit, there are some fairly manageable techniques and changes you can consider implementing into your routine that may help smooth out the experience.
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:
