Small changes can make a pediatric emergency department visit less frightening. At Emergency Nursing 2026, Sara Daykin, DNP, MSN, CPEN, TCRN, CNEcl, FAEN, presented “Keep It Simple: Quick Interventions That Can Positively Impact Pediatric Outcomes,” showing how simple interventions can improve a young patient’s experience.
Sara Daykin discussed the simple interventions that can improve a pediatric patient’s experience in the ED.
The main takeaway from Daykin’s session is it takes surprisingly little to improve a pediatric patient’s experience in the ED. She acknowledges the experience is inherently stressful and unpleasant for children, given the nature of emergencies. However, she stresses minimizing environmental and procedural challenges can make a profound difference for young patients.
Helping children feel calm and comfortable can begin with the room. Dimming bright lights, adjusting the temperature, and offering distractions may make the ED feel less overwhelming
“When you walk into a room with bright lights glaring and loud noises, it can feel terrifying,” Daykin explained. “Small sensory supports can help ease that anxiety.”
Relatability is also key. Daykin recommends connecting with children on a personal level by asking about their favorite TV show or the name of their stuffed animal.
“These small questions help build trust,” she said, “because the child sees you as a fellow human, not just a clinician.”
Honesty is another way to build trust. Daykin emphasized children can sense when clinicians are not being truthful, which may make it harder for them to feel calm.
“If a medication isn’t going to taste good, tell the patient upfront,” she said. “If an IV placement is going to hurt, be honest about that too. They might cry, but that honesty builds trust.”
Using language that children can understand is equally important. Medical jargon can confuse or frighten them, so nurses should tailor their communication to the child’s developmental level and avoid assumptions based on age alone.
Trauma-informed care is another essential consideration. Some pediatric patients may have prior traumatic experiences that surface during their ED visits. Daykin advises recognizing these moments and allowing space for the child’s feelings without exacerbating distress.
Emma Foss, ADN, RN, of Stanwood, Washington, works in a general ED that sees many pediatric patients. Her biggest takeaway was to meet children where they are.
“We try our best to be honest and straightforward with kids, but it can be really easy to tell white lies to get things done,” she explained. “Understanding that it’s a scary experience is key. That’s something I can bring back to my team.”
Katie Lutovsky, RN, CEN, of Gig Harbor, Washington, also emphasized family involvement as a way to help make pediatric care feel safe.
“Letting the patient have choices and autonomy in the care they receive stands out to me. That collaboration is essential for a safe and calm environment,” she said.
Daykin reinforced these points by encouraging ED nurses to approach pediatric care with the same confidence they bring to adult patients.
“Listen to your gut. If your gut is telling you that this kid is sick, then the kid is sick.”
Daykin’s message to emergency nurses was practical: adjust the environment, communicate honestly, involve families and trust your judgment when a child seems sick. Together, those small interventions can make pediatric ED care calmer and more reassuring.