Parental presence in pediatric trauma resuscitation: one hospital's experience

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Emergency Medicine
• Trauma Care
• Family-Centered Care

Background:

• Parental presence is common in pediatric medical resuscitation but rare in pediatric trauma resuscitation.
• Blank Children's Hospital has implemented a successful family presence program in pediatric trauma resuscitation over the past three years.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development and implementation of a family presence program in pediatric trauma resuscitation.
• To highlight the positive reception of this program by families.

Main Methods:

• Initiated by a single nurse, a task force was formed.
• Guidelines were developed collaboratively with nursing, allied health, and trauma surgery staff.
• Chaplains were trained as dedicated family support persons during resuscitation events.

Main Results:

• The program has been successfully operational for three years.
• Families have demonstrated receptiveness and satisfaction with being present during their child's trauma resuscitation.
• The collaborative approach ensured comprehensive guideline development.

Conclusions:

• Family presence in pediatric trauma resuscitation is feasible and beneficial.
• The established program at Blank Children's Hospital serves as a model for other institutions.
• Involving multidisciplinary teams and trained support staff is crucial for successful implementation.