Hendrick Children’s Hospital – a hospital fit for kids

One of the scariest times in a parent’s life is when their child needs to be hospitalized, a time that can be frightening for the child as well. Caring for pediatric patients requires specialized equipment, supplies and training appropriate for all stages of a child’s growth.

As the only children’s hospital between Fort Worth and El Paso, the 23-bed Hendrick Children’s Hospital is equipped and staffed to care for pediatric patients in a warm and calming environment. Comforting and spacious rooms can accommodate newborns with respiratory infections, pre-school children with chronic diseases and teenagers with traumatic injuries.

“Having a local children’s hospital allows for children and families to stay close to home during those times of illness and trauma that lead to hospitalization,” said Alyssa Yanez, child life specialist at Hendrick Children’s Hospital. “The pediatric team is community-focused, which is important in providing comfort during times of stress.”

To make hospitalization a positive and less stressful experience, a child life specialist partners with a patient’s healthcare team to ensure prioritization of their emotional and physical needs. Introducing effective coping strategies and offering support throughout the entire process contributes to young patients’ overall healing.

“By providing developmentally appropriate education, preparation and support during procedures, child life specialists help children cope more effectively to aid in experiencing less psychological trauma while in the hospital setting,” said Yanez. “When children understand what's happening to them, they can cope more effectively.”

Hendrick Children’s Hospital’s décor is even designed with young patients in mind. The whimsical illustrations in hallways and patient rooms are taken from the pages of The Berenstain Bears children’s books. Age-appropriate playrooms, a specialized treatment room and plenty of fun distractions ensure patients carry a positive healthcare experience into adulthood.

Visit hendrickhealth.org/pediatrics to learn more about Hendrick Children’s Hospital.