Document Type

Presentation -- MUSC Only

Publication Date

2025

Faculty Mentor

Roxanna Bendixen

Abstract

In the U.S., it is estimated that at least 239,000 children were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) in the year 2019 (Killeen et al., 2023). Post Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS) describes the adverse impacts that patients suffer from after the ICU, and children are especially vulnerable in the critical period of growing and developing (Smith & Rahman, 2023). The Sleep, Play, Heal (SPH) program is a pediatric ICU liberation movement at a local children’s hospital aimed to decrease PICS and improve outcomes for children and families. Through team interviews, the need for educational resources to maintain a continuum of quality care and increase preparedness when leaving the PICU, was revealed. The purpose of this capstone was to further understand and collaborate to address the needs of the SPH program. Our aims were to enhance consistent interdisciplinary care by increasing awareness and knowledge of the importance of the SPH program, leading to better recovery outcomes for children and their families in and after the PICU. This capstone project supported the SPH program by development of educational materials for both staff and families, including a comprehensive PowerPoint and discharge packet. These materials were reviewed by SPH team members and distributed to interprofessional staff. Nine professionals provided feedback via surveys, while four families participated in interviews to share their perspectives. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Results showed positive responses, with 100% of staff agreeing or strongly agreeing that the resources improved their understanding of the SPH program and they were likely to use them in practice. Families expressed a desire for more information on PICS and the SPH program, validating the need for resource development. Suggestions for improvement were continuously integrated throughout the 14-week implementation period. This project highlights the importance of comprehensive educational resources in enhancing awareness and confidence among PICU staff and families to support better outcomes for pediatric ICU survivors.

References:

Killien, E. Y., Keller, M. R., Watson, R. S., & Hartman, M. E. (2023). Epidemiology of intensive care admissions for children in the US from 2001 to 2019. JAMA Pediatrics, 177(5), 506-515. 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2023.0184

Smith, S., & Rahman, O. (2023). Postintensive care syndrome. StatPearls (). StatPearls Publishing

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