The Role of Pediatric Psychologists in Critical Care: Lessons Learned and Future Directions in Integrating Mental Health Care into Pediatric Intensive Care Units.

Journal: Chest

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Affiliated Institutions:  Department of Pediatrics, Ochsner Hospital for Children, New Orleans, LA. Electronic address: kristin.canavera@ochsner.org. Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin and Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI. Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX.

Abstract summary 

Pediatric psychologist are essential staff in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Their role in caring for critically ill children aligns with clinical practice guidelines for the mental health care needs of this population of patients. This paper highlights the role of pediatric psychology in the PICU through illustrative case examples. We discuss lessons learned and future directions for the development and provision of mental health services in PICUs. We address relevant ways for critical care providers to understand the importance of evidence-based psychological care and advocate for the inclusion of psychologists on multidisciplinary PICU teams. As the critical care field continues to focus on an improved understanding of Post-Intensive Care Syndrome in pediatrics (PICS-p) and the psychological needs of critical care patients, it will be important to consider the vital roles of psychologists and to advocate for improved integration of mental health care in PICUs.

Authors & Co-authors:  Canavera Marik Schneider Smith

Study Outcome 

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Statistics
Citations : 
Authors :  4
Identifiers
Doi : S0012-3692(24)00398-2
SSN : 1931-3543
Study Population
Male,Female
Mesh Terms
Other Terms
Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS);mental health integration;pediatric mental health;pediatric psychology;psychological outcomes
Study Design
Study Approach
Country of Study
Publication Country
United States