The Teddy Bear Hospital is a unique initiative that has been gaining traction since its inception. By combining medical education with play, this project aims to demystify the healthcare system for young patients, helping them to overcome their fears and develop a more positive connection with healthcare settings. The project was born out of a desire to provide children with a fun and engaging way to explore medical scenarios using their most trusted companions – their teddy bears. By doing so, the Teddy Bear Hospital hopes to bridge the gap between young patients and the healthcare system, making it easier for them to navigate the often-intimidating environment of a hospital.
- One of the key goals of the Teddy Bear Hospital is to reduce fears and anxieties associated with hospital visits and medical procedures.
- The project uses a variety of activities to achieve this goal, including clinical examination techniques, familiarisation of medical equipment and PPE, and myth-busting sessions.
- These activities are designed to be both fun and educational, allowing children to learn about the healthcare system in a way that is engaging and accessible.
A recent event hosted by the School of Medicine’s Child Health Society brought together children, their families, and medical students for a day of hands-on activities. The event included activities such as:
- Getting to wear child-sized scrubs and putting their teddy bears through pretend MRI and X-ray machines.
- Getting their bloods ‘taken’ and having a nasogastric tube or cannula ‘fitted’.
- Visiting the ‘dentist’ and participating in myth-busting sessions.
These activities were designed to promote a positive connection with healthcare settings while demystifying the process. By allowing children to engage with medical equipment and procedures in a fun and interactive way, the Teddy Bear Hospital hopes to reduce fears and anxieties associated with hospital visits.
“My child doesn’t like attending hospital appointments for bloods or check-ups, and is afraid of doctors’ uniforms. He is a hands-on and visual learner. This is will hopefully help him see that he doesn’t have to worry.”
Sinéad Doyle, a medical student at Ulster University, witnessed firsthand the impact of the Teddy Bear Hospital on young patients. “Witnessing children overcome their fears of medical procedures and environments while caring for their favourite teddy bears is heartwarming. Hospitals can be intimidating for young kids, so being part of this initiative is a brilliant way to connect with the community and help children feel more at ease in healthcare settings.”
The Teddy Bear Hospital is just one example of the many initiatives aimed at reducing children’s fears and anxieties associated with hospital visits. By combining medical education with play, this project aims to make an enduring impact, one teddy bear hug at a time.
| Key Partners | Description |
|---|---|
| Ulster University Child Health Society | Hosted the event and provided medical students for the activities. |
| Altnagelvin Parents Group | Provided insight into the fears and anxieties of children with medical conditions. |
| WHSCT Health Improvement Equality and Involvement Department | Provided information stalls on topics such as promoting healthy lifestyles and mental health. |
By working together, these partners aim to create a more positive and supportive environment for young patients and their families. The Teddy Bear Hospital is a shining example of this collaboration, and its impact will be felt for years to come.
Reducing fears and anxieties associated with hospital visits is crucial for the well-being and development of young patients.
This initiative highlights the importance of addressing the emotional and psychological needs of young patients, in addition to their physical health needs. By providing a fun and engaging way to explore medical scenarios, the Teddy Bear Hospital aims to promote a positive connection with healthcare settings, making it easier for children to navigate the often-intimidating environment of a hospital.
- Reducing fears and anxieties associated with hospital visits
- Promoting a positive connection with healthcare settings
- Providing a fun and educational experience for young patients
By offering a unique and engaging way to explore medical scenarios, the Teddy Bear Hospital aims to make an enduring impact on the lives of young patients and their families. Its success is a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of addressing the emotional and psychological needs of young patients.
