Child-centred model of care improving experience of sick kids
L to R: of Dr Rajeev Jarugula, Rebekah Rawson, Dr Michelle Davison and Kylie Sykes.
A new model of paediatric care at Caboolture Hospital is improving the journey of sick kids.
The model, which adopts a child-centred approach, includes a number of physical improvements to the hospital’s new emergency department accompanied by the introduction of a new specialist paediatric team.
The model includes a separate triage for paediatric patients, ensuring they are assessed and treated more promptly in an environment tailored to their specific needs.
Associate Nurse Unit Manager Rebekah Rawson said that children have unique needs when it comes to care delivery.
“Some children can be very anxious when they come to hospital, especially when they have to undergo clinical procedures and tests. It can be quite stressful for the patient and their family,” Rebekah said.
“Providing care in a child friendly environment helps mitigate the anxiety that children may experience in a hospital setting, which improves the overall experience.
“A separate triage also means that our patients are seen more promptly, rather than having to be triaged within a single emergency department for adults and children.
“This helps reduce waiting times, which is critical in emergency situations and also means that patients and their families don’t have to spend as much time in hospital.
“This is particularly important with Caboolture being a fast-growing region with a high population of paediatric patients.”
The appointment of a paediatric specialist team has supported the physical improvements made within the paediatric service.
The team, who share nearly 100 years between them, will support the hospital’s Paediatric Emergency Department, Children’s Ward and outpatient areas, facilitating enhanced care across all areas.
“By having a team of specialists, we are better equipped to address the unique medical needs of children, resulting in more accurate diagnoses and effective treatments,” Rebekah said.
“Collectively the changes will mean improved care outcomes and experiences for children and their families.”