Decreasing the Trauma of Trauma: Providing Emotionally Safe Care to Injured Pediatric Patients-Video: Decreasing the Trauma of Trauma: Providing Emotionally Safe Care to Injured Pediatric Patients

Video: Decreasing the Trauma of Trauma: Providing Emotionally Safe Care to Injured Pediatric Patients

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Video Summary

In a recent TCAA webinar, Jenea Gordon, a Certified Child Life Specialist and newly appointed Patient Emotional Safety Specialist at Children's Hospital Colorado, delved into the nuances of handling trauma in pediatric patients. She outlined the importance of a trauma-informed approach, applicable to all age groups, emphasizing emotional safety as an integral part of healthcare to minimize additional trauma. Gordon highlighted the prevalence of pediatric traumatic stress and its potential long-term effects, noting that about 80% of pediatric patients and their families experience traumatic stress following hospitalization.<br /><br />Gordon presented strategies for healthcare professionals to manage trauma, such as using developmentally appropriate communication, preparing for medical procedures, and engaging caregivers actively in the process. She underscored the significance of planning to alleviate pain and fear, employing comfort positioning during procedures, and choosing gentle language. Additionally, she explained the critical role of understanding physiological and behavioral trauma responses, advocating for supportive techniques like deep breathing and involving families in a child's care.<br /><br />The webinar also provided resources for further learning about trauma-informed care practices, underscoring the importance of continuous education for healthcare providers to improve patient care outcomes.

Keywords

trauma-informed care

pediatric trauma

emotional safety

child life specialist

patient care

traumatic stress

healthcare strategies

family involvement

pediatric patients