By Dr. Ramaz Mitaishvili
COMPETENCY: All students must read and understand the policy/practice. Any licensed staff currently checked-off in this skill may serve as a preceptor.
There are some things you can do to help a patient feel better. Remember each patient may react differently to comfort measures provided. If a patient verbalizes or shows signs of dislike for a particular comfort measure try another.
For All Age Patients
• provide a quiet dimly lit room
• when appropriate, may close door
• provide a security/comfort item (e.g. blanket, stuffed animal,
• special toy, family photo)
• use a quiet calm voice
• be supportive
• reposition the patient as appropriate
• prepare the patient and family for painful experiences/or make referral to Child Life
• spend time with the patient, be attentive to t he patient and his/her needs
• give as much control as possible
Infant/Toddlers 0-2 years
• hold/rock infant/toddler
• gentle stroking or patting
• pacifier
* simple books/reading
Preschoolers 3-5 years
• holding/rocking (depending on weight and size of patient)
• gentle stroking or patting
• story telling
* reading books
* bubbles
* videos (developmentally appropriate)
* toys/games
• breath work, breathing exercises
School Age 6-11 years
* reading books
* bubbles
* games/crafts
* videos
• video games – systems found on unit
• breath work, breathing exercises
Teens and Adults
* guided imagery (story tapes that lead the patient to relaxation)
* CD players and favorite relaxation music
* videos
* crafts/games
* journals
* books/magazines
• video games – systems found on unit
• breath work, breathing exercises
* Contact the Child Life Specialist for your unit to receive these supplies.
