Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably reshaped the landscape of healthcare, particularly in pediatric settings. As medical facilities adapted to new safety protocols, the role of Certified Child Life Specialists (CCLSs) became even more crucial. These professionals provide psychosocial support to children and families, helping them navigate the complexities of medical environments. A recent study, "Supporting Children and Families in Medical Settings: Insights from Child Life Specialists During the COVID-19 Pandemic," offers valuable insights into how CCLSs have adapted their practices and what can be learned from their experiences.
Key Findings from the Study
The study utilized a mixed-methods approach, surveying 101 CCLSs and conducting follow-up interviews with 15 participants. The findings highlighted several critical areas:
- Increased Stress and Anxiety: The pandemic heightened stress levels among pediatric patients and their families, exacerbated by restrictive visitation policies and limited social support.
- Essential Role of CCLSs: CCLSs were instrumental in providing emotional support and helping children understand medical procedures, thereby reducing fear and anxiety.
- Challenges with Visitation Policies: Restrictive visitation policies, while necessary for infection control, often conflicted with family-centered care principles, impacting the well-being of patients and their families.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The study recommends that medical teams work across disciplines to identify best practices for supporting patients and families, drawing lessons from the pandemic.
Implementing Research Outcomes in Practice
For practitioners looking to enhance their skills and improve outcomes for pediatric patients, the study offers several actionable insights:
- Emphasize Family-Centered Care: Even amid restrictions, strive to maintain a focus on family-centered care by facilitating virtual visits and providing resources for caregivers.
- Leverage Technology: Utilize technology to maintain connections between patients and their families and to deliver child life services remotely when in-person interactions are limited.
- Advocate for Balanced Policies: Work with medical teams to advocate for visitation policies that balance physical safety with the emotional and developmental needs of pediatric patients.
- Expand Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Foster collaboration with other healthcare professionals to develop comprehensive care plans that address both medical and psychosocial needs.
Encouraging Further Research
The study underscores the importance of ongoing research to understand the long-term impacts of the pandemic on pediatric care. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in further research to explore innovative approaches to supporting children and families in medical settings.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Supporting Children and Families in Medical Settings: Insights from Child Life Specialists During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
