These Tricks Are For Kids

     When transport time for a child is extended, it can be increasingly difficult to get them to stay on task with your patient care plan, e.g., breathing properly so the albuterol treatment has a chance to work. This is even more difficult if spinal motion restriction steps have been taken.

     Some agencies get small teddy bears and put agency T-shirts on them. Getting a new toy is always a plus to a kid, and you can use that to your advantage: "How about I listen to your bear breathe and then I will listen to you breathe?" Given the tough budget times, an inflated glove adorned with either pen or marker is still an all-time classic diversionary toy that works in a pinch.

Be Honest

     Throughout the entire time a child is in your care, be honest in every aspect of your communications. Most kids have a finely tuned BS meter and know instantly if they are hearing a fairy tale. Being honest is especially important if you are going to do something that will cause pain or discomfort, whether it's starting an IV or splinting a fractured wrist or dislocated shoulder. Misleading or lying to a child is never a good idea. The long-term impact when such things do occur could be significant in planting seeds of mistrust that future healthcare providers will have to deal with.

     Until next month.

     Mike Smith, BS, MICP, is program chair for the Emergency Medical Services program at Tacoma Community College in Tacoma, WA, and a member of EMS Magazine's editorial advisory board.