Survey on Trauma-Informed Care in Pediatric Hospitals across Japan

Abstract

Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) is a system that provides trauma support, taking into account trauma that the user has experienced and its impact, as well aiming to prevent re-traumatization. In pediatric medicine, there are many cases related to trauma, and thus, even though there is a desire for TIC’s widespread use, there are still few in pediatric medicine endeavoring to implement it. In order to comprehend the recognition of TIC, its understanding and spread within pediatric medicine, and further to consider possible responses needed in the future, we conducted a questionnaire survey of pediatric hospitals nationwide. Although the concept of TIC was only just beginning to be known, we received many responses indicating that TIC-based initiatives had actually been put into practice with patients and among medical staff, and that they had experienced the benefits of doing so. Further, it was thought that in the future, as more people involved in pediatric healthcare deepen their understanding of TIC, support will be able to be provided that lessens trauma for users and healthcare workers, including support that recognises trauma symptoms. And thusly that pediatric healthcare will become a more secure and safe environment.