Related Experiment Videos
Children in accident and emergency
1A & E Department, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK.
Insights
Optimizing pediatric care in Accident and Emergency (A & E) departments requires understanding child development and specific A & E challenges. Applying this knowledge ensures the best care for children and their families.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nursing
- Emergency Medicine
- Child Development
Background:
- Children present unique challenges in healthcare settings.
- Accident and Emergency (A & E) departments require specialized approaches for pediatric patients.
- Existing literature highlights principles for effective hospital care of children.
Abstract:
The purpose of this paper is to examine the many issues surrounding the care of children within Accident and Emergency (A & E) departments. A review of relevant literature reveals the principles that are pertinent to the care of the child in hospital and specifically within an A & E department. Theories of child development are introduced and discussed in relation to nursing care of children. The reflective cycle is used to examine two critical incidents. The analysis of these events allows further scrutiny of the ideas relating to the care of children and illustrates the way in which such ideals can be used to guide practice. The authors concludes that a sound knowledge of the developmental process of the child, and an understanding of the particular issues relevant to the care of the child within the accident and emergency environment can ensure optimum care for each child and their family.