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Ask the children--auditing children's services with PALS standards
1Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
Paediatric Nursing
|November 9, 2005
Summary
Parents reported good information during outpatient visits but desired more written materials. Children found the environment positive, though older kids wanted more engaging waiting areas and better awareness of patient support services.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare quality improvement
- Pediatric patient experience
Background:
- The NHS Plan emphasizes collaboration.
- The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) was established to enhance patient support.
- Auditing outpatient services for children's experiences aligns with national healthcare frameworks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the experiences of children in outpatient departments.
- To assess outpatient services against PALS national standards and the National Service Framework for Children.
- To identify areas for improvement in pediatric outpatient care.
Main Methods:
- An audit of outpatient services was conducted.
- Utilized PALS national standards for evaluation.
- Incorporated the National Service Framework for Children guidelines.
Main Results:
- Parents received adequate verbal information but desired more take-home written materials.
- The overall environment was positively received.
- Older children desired more age-appropriate activities in waiting areas.
- Awareness of PALS and contact points for concerns was low among respondents.
Conclusions:
- While information provision and environment are generally positive, enhancements are needed.
- Improving written information and waiting area activities can improve pediatric outpatient experience.
- Increasing awareness and accessibility of PALS is crucial for patient support.