Care of the Hospitalized Child - Vocabulary Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the lecture notes on care of the hospitalized child.

Hospitalization

A major stressor for both the child and family; families are treated as clients in pediatric care.

Family-centered care

An approach that treats the family as essential partners and involves them in planning, delivery, and evaluation of care.

Child Life Specialist (CLS)

A trained professional helping children and families cope with illness and hospitalization through preparation, play, emotional support, and family guidance.

Protest (Separation anxiety stage)

An initial stage of separation anxiety with crying, clinging to parents, and aggression toward strangers.

Despair (Separation anxiety stage)

The phase of withdrawal and depression, with reduced communication and potential developmental regression.

Detachment (Separation anxiety stage)

Apparent adjustment and interaction with strangers that may mask underlying despair and coping rather than true adaptation.

Stranger anxiety

Fear of unfamiliar people, typically beginning around 6–8 months.

Infant (Birth-12 months)

Limited understanding of hospitalization; cannot describe feelings or follow directions; relies on caregivers.

Sweet-ease (sucrose)

Sugar solution used for minor painful procedures in infants 6 months and younger; not for calming fussy infants and only if the baby can safely eat or drink.

Mummy restraint

A restraint technique used during procedures for infants when necessary.

Toddler (1-3 years) – Loss of control

Distress from disrupted routines and enforced dependency, leading to frustration and negativism.

Toddler – Simple explanations

Provide brief, concrete explanations appropriate to the child's developmental level.

Toddler – Autonomy through choices

Promote autonomy by offering age-appropriate choices (e.g., two snack options or a toy).

Preschooler (3-5 years) – Magical thinking

Belief that thoughts or actions can influence external events; common in this age group.

Preschooler – Fear of bodily harm

Fear of injury or procedures; concern about bodily harm.

Preschooler – Simple language

Use clear, non-jargon language to explain; e.g., 'listen to your heart'.

School-Age (6-12 years) – Understanding and information

Developing awareness of body functioning; can describe pain and seeks factual information to maintain control.

School-Age – Maintain routines

Keep schoolwork, recreation, and normal routines, especially for extended stays.

School-Age – Peer interaction

Encourage interaction with peers to support coping and social development.

Adolescent (13-18 years) – Autonomy and identity

Increased understanding; hospitalization can threaten independence and identity; privacy matters.

Adolescent – Privacy and independence

Respect privacy and involve in care decisions to restore control and autonomy.

Preparation for procedures (CLS)

CLS uses age-appropriate methods (play, pictures, storytelling) to explain procedures and reduce fear.

Therapeutic play

Play used as a tool for emotional expression and coping with illness and hospitalization.

Distraction techniques

Using toys, music, or videos during procedures to ease stress.

Routine consistency

Maintain consistent routines to reduce anxiety during hospitalization.

Factual explanations

Provide age-appropriate, factual information and invite questions.

Family stressors

Fears, guilt, altered roles, finances, missed work, lack of knowledge, and caregiver strain.

Sibling impact

Siblings may feel loneliness, jealousy, guilt, or anger due to a child's hospitalization.

Caregiver role strain

Increased caregiving demands that can impair the caregiver's ability to perform their roles.

Ambu bag size

An Ambu bag must be sized for the child's weight to ensure effective ventilation.

Suction equipment size

Suction tools must be appropriately sized for the child.

Code sheet

Code sheet should list accurate age and weight and essential medical information for emergencies.

Peer support

Encourage support from peers, including in-person or virtual connections.