A Day of Insight in the Paediatric Ward ??
On Thursday I had the incredible opportunity to spend a day observing the work in the paediatric ward of The Queen Elizabeth Hospital Kings Lynn. This experience offered valuable insight into the care of young patients, from medical treatment to emotional support. Observing how the staff interacted with children and their families gave me a deeper appreciation for the role psychology plays in healthcare, especially in paediatric settings.
?????? Patient Care Beyond Medicine:
What stood out to me was the emphasis on emotional well-being alongside physical treatment. Paediatric patients often face unfamiliar environments, procedures, and treatments that can create anxiety or distress. The importance of play was highlighted where staff use play to reassure patients, alleviate fear and build trust.
?? The Role of Psychological Development:
Children at different stages of development respond differently to stress, pain, and illness. In the pediatric ward, I saw how staff tailored their approaches, whether it was explaining procedures in age-appropriate terms or using distraction techniques to manage anxiety. It reinforced the importance of child psychology in medical environments—understanding how cognitive and emotional development impacts coping mechanisms is crucial to effective patient care.
?? Family Dynamics and Support:
Another critical element was the role of family in a child’s care. Support for parents managing their child’s illness was as essential as the care for the child, reflecting the need for psychological support in managing stress, uncertainty, and emotional fatigue. Psychology can bridge this gap by offering tools for both patients and families to navigate the challenges of being in hospital.
?? Reflection on Healthcare and Psychology:
This experience deepened my understanding of how psychology is involved in every aspect of healthcare, particularly in paediatrics. It’s not just about treating an illness but addressing the emotional, psychological, and social factors that impact a child’s recovery and overall well-being. This day in the pediatric ward highlighted the importance of psychology in healthcare settings, and has made clear to me how vital play is in a child’s healing process.
Thank you so much to all of the staff for allowing me the opportunity to observe and learn from their amazing work!
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Thank you for your perseverance