Reflection on Child-Friendly Healthcare in the Emergency Department From the Perspective of the Nurse-Patient Relationship

Abstract

Emergency nurses, especially when caring for pediatric patients, typically establish relationships with their patients under hectic and busy conditions. Thus, these nurses often rely on semi-coaxing / slightly stressful methods to quickly prepare patients to undergo necessary medical procedures. However these approaches cause tense relationships. To establish friendly bridges with pediatric patients, emergency nurses should adopt sincere and caring approaches. An approach based on Swanson's caring theory for applying child-friendly healthcare in the emergency department is proposed in this article. It is important to establish a friendly bridge with pediatric patients with emergency treatment needs and their families in a sincere and caring manner; to understand the needs of these children and their families when seeking medical treatment; to be present, listen, and respond to these patients and provide decision-making power when appropriate; and to provide professional care and method knowledge to empower families to care for their children. Accomplishing this may be expected to improve trust in both children with emergency medical needs and their families and thus decrease their anxiety, negative emotions, and stress. We hope that reflecting on the relationship between nurses and patients may further promote the practice of friendly healthcare in pediatric emergency departments.