11 | Child Life Specialists in the ED with Madison Matthews, CCLS

In this episode, Toni welcomes Madison Matthews, a Certified Child Life Specialist, to discuss the vital role child life specialists play in pediatric care. Madison explains her background and qualifications, the core principles of child life, and their impact on reducing the need for anesthesia, lowering healthcare costs, and minimizing PTSD and anxiety for young patients. The discussion covers Madison's experiences, including her approach to preparing children for procedures, working with families during traumatic events, and facilitating conversations about serious diagnoses and bereavement. The episode highlights the importance of child life specialists and provides tips for integrating child life techniques in settings without these professionals.

 

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:08 Meet Madison Matthews: Certified Child Life Specialist

00:50 Understanding the Role of a Child Life Specialist

02:30 Impact of Child Life Specialists in Healthcare

04:57 Personal Experiences and Challenges

08:33 Theories and Techniques in Child Life

10:28 Practical Applications and Coping Strategies

17:52 Understanding Children's Anxiety in Medical Settings

18:23 Discussing a Brain Tumor Diagnosis with a Child

20:35 Supporting Families During Trauma Situations

22:33 Facilitating Bereavement Conversations

27:59 Emerging Technologies in Child Life

29:11 Implementing Child Life Techniques in Community Settings

34:44 Final Thoughts on Child Life Services

 

NEXT Month: Cheryl Fabor and June Bryant, FNP, from the Dysautonomia Project will be joining us to discuss dysautonomia. This is a condition being seen more commonly in the ED and diagnosis is often delayed for years due to lack of provider recognition. Don't miss this episode!