Institutional Experience with Investigation and Service for Acute and Post-Traumatic Stress in the Pediatric...

Area of Science:

• Medical Psychology
• Pediatric Intensive Care
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Stress-related mental health issues like acute stress, post-traumatic stress, and burnout are prevalent among healthcare professionals, families, and patients, especially in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs).
• Existing knowledge gaps hinder understanding of factors influencing stress-related illnesses and effective mitigation strategies within PICUs.
• Healthcare institutions face challenges in implementing non-revenue generating mental health support programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the factors contributing to stress-related mental health problems in the PICU setting.
• To develop and implement interventions for healthcare professionals and families experiencing stress and burnout.
• To foster cross-departmental collaboration within academic institutions for mental health support.

Main Methods:

• A multidisciplinary group was established over five years to study stress-related mental health issues.
• The group focused on identifying protective and exacerbating individual and institutional factors.
• Interventions were developed and provided to PICU professionals and families.

Main Results:

• The five-year experience highlights the persistent challenges of stress and burnout in PICUs.
• The multidisciplinary approach facilitated the investigation and provision of targeted interventions.
• Institutional engagement and cross-departmental collaboration were key to the initiative's development.

Conclusions:

• Addressing stress and burnout in PICUs requires a sustained, multidisciplinary approach.
• Understanding individual and institutional factors is crucial for effective mental health interventions.
• Continued research and collaborative efforts are essential to mitigate stress-related illnesses in high-acuity pediatric settings.