Round Rock, TX (March 28, 2008) - Difficult or unexpected experiences, such as a trip to the emergency room or the hospitalization of a family member, are upsetting for all involved, but children are particularly vulnerable. To support the unique needs of children during stressful situations, Seton Medical Center Williamson offers Child Life Services.
Trained professionals, called Child Life Specialists, are vital members of the healthcare team at Seton Medical Center Williamson. These certified specialists are experts in child development who help children cope through play, preparation, education and self-expression.
"When I work with a child, one of my goals is to help them understand and cope with the hospital environment on their terms," said Donna Brown-Looper, one of two Child Life Specialists on staff at Seton Medical Center Williamson. "For example, if a child arrives at the Emergency Department with a broken bone, I help them prepare for the procedure by explaining what will happen or how the medical instruments will be used - all on a level that the child understands."
Brown-Looper also offers children their choice of coping strategies which gives them some control over stressful medical situations. Children can choose to be distracted by a toy, book or music, squeeze stress balls or practice deep breathing. Stress can be a major inhibitor in the ability of a patient to heal and stay well.
"Sometimes giving the child a simple job during a procedure, such as holding a bandage for the nurse, can help alleviate stress," she added.
Since opening in February, more than 340 children have come to Seton Medical Center Williamson's Emergency Department, making this area a key focus for Child Life Services. In addition, the Child Life Specialists provide support to children who are admitted to the hospital's pediatric inpatient unit or children who have family members in the hospital.
The hospital's playroom is a refuge for children trying to deal with these difficult circumstances. "It may sound simple, but encouraging play helps children normalize their environment," said Brown-Looper. "It's a setting where they are the leader. They have the opportunity to act out anxiety and fears and express their feelings."
"The Child Life program is a great example of how Seton Medical Center Williamson combines the best in complex care with a more holistic healing approach that addresses the mind, body and spirit," said Michelle Robertson, vice president and chief operating officer, Seton Medical Center Williamson.
As the program grows, Brown-Looper hopes to expand services to more areas of the hospital, as well as offer much-needed community services such as support groups for children with chronic illnesses and infant/child car seat checks to ensure proper use.
Seton is proud to have four hospitals – the only hospitals in Central Texas - that have earned the