Hospitals can traumatize children undergoing medical procedures due to fear of the unknown, pain, and loss of control over their body. To minimize trauma, hospitals should treat children with respect, explain procedures simply, allow time to familiarize themselves with the hospital environment before visits, and involve Child Life specialists who prepare children through medical play and distraction techniques. The goal is to help children feel safe and in control to reduce stress of the healthcare experience.

1. Hospital Trauma What it is and how to minimize it