To kick-off #NationalNursesWeek The Center for Injury Research and Prevention just launched a new website for nurses and medical staff to help children and families coping with illness and injuries. The “Health Care Toolbox” looks at Pediatric Medical Traumatic Stress for children and families and how nurses can play a significant role in reducing distress, bringing emotional support and interact with the family.
When a child is injured or sick, the pain endured by the child as well as the medical procedures or treatment the child has to go through can create psychological and physiological responses from the child and the family called “Pediatric Medical Traumatic Stress Disorder”. Having trouble concentrating, sleeping and eating, blaming each other or feeling numb about the situation, having unwanted thoughts or avoiding things reminding them of the event are some of the symptoms that can be experienced during Pediatric Medical Traumatic Stress Disorder. If the symptoms persist they can lead to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
By providing trauma informed care for children, nurses are playing a significant role in preventing or lowering Pediatric Medical Traumatic Stress Disorder. They can help families coping with trauma and minimizing the traumatic aspects of medical care. By talking to children and parents about their concerns and fears, they can better understand how to care for the children and make sure the rest of the medical staff is aware of traumatic stress reactions the child might have. They can screen those patients that are the most at risk and bring the appropriate level of care to those who need the most help.
For more info, visit the Health Care Tool Box