MRI room makeover eases patient stress during procedures
Fewer patients are now requiring general anesthesia for their MRI exams, following the creation of a new, kid-friendly MRI room and MRI movie goggles by the Department of Radiology. As part of our Patient Friendly Environment Initiative, the equipment and walls were wrapped with beach scenes, underwater adventures, animals and more. These colorful, themed murals help children relax and provide a distraction during the procedure.
Minimizing the trauma and anxiety of hospitalization
Our Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy Department and compassionate staff work hard to minimize trauma and anxiety for our patients and allow them to continue typical growth and development. This year we continued to offer a wide variety of support services and activities.
Comfort Commitment assists with painful pediatric procedures
In 2021, we launched a new Comfort Commitment Initiative which provides a standardized approach to help patients better cope with distressing procedures and decrease pain and anxiety. Thanks to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMN), we are consistently able to provide support, a calming environment and empower children to customize a plan that uniquely meets their specific needs.
STEPS team expands into perinatal palliative care
The Supportive Therapies and Enhanced Palliative Services (STEPS) team at UC Davis Children’s Hospital has improved the quality of life for patients with acute or chronic life-limiting illnesses and their families. The specialized interdisciplinary team recently expanded to cover perinatal palliative care services for pregnant women whose fetuses have congenital anomalies and focuses on helping to prevent, reduce and soothe symptoms associated with illness.
Playroom reopens
This year, we’ve welcomed our first patient back into our pediatric playroom since March 2020. Our playroom is staffed by Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy staff. The playroom offers jigsaw puzzles, arts and crafts, toys, books and more.
