Nursing Component Task
Nursing procedures & clinical learning

Paediatric Nursing (PAED)

DEVELOPING INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH THE CHILD AND CAREGIVER/FAMILY (ESTABLISHING RAPPORT)

This is the intentional process of building trust and therapeutic relationship with a hospitalized child and their family.

Purpose

  • Build trust with child and family
  • Reduce anxiety and fear
  • Facilitate cooperation with care
  • Promote open communication
  • Create supportive environment

Indications

  • All interactions with hospitalized children and families

Equipment

  • Age-appropriate toys or books
  • Comfort items if available
  • Private space for conversation
  • Visual aids if needed

Preparation

  • Learn child's name and preferences
  • Review family situation
  • Plan unhurried interaction time
  • Prepare age-appropriate materials

Procedure steps

  • Approach child at eye level
  • Introduce self using name and role
  • Use child's preferred name
  • Speak in age-appropriate language
  • Allow child to express feelings
  • Listen actively to concerns
  • Validate child's emotions
  • Include family in conversations
  • Respect cultural practices
  • Be honest about procedures
  • Keep promises made
  • Spend time with child beyond care tasks
  • Use play to connect with younger children
  • Respect adolescent's need for privacy
  • Maintain consistency in caregivers when possible

Precautions

  • Avoid false reassurances
  • Respect boundaries
  • Maintain professional role
  • Be culturally sensitive

Aftercare

  • Follow up on concerns expressed
  • Continue building relationship daily
  • Update care team on family needs
  • Evaluate effectiveness of approach

Nursing considerations

  • Adjust approach based on developmental stage
  • Consider previous healthcare experiences
  • Recognize signs of trauma
  • Involve child life specialist if available

Patient education

  • Explain roles of healthcare team
  • Encourage expression of needs
  • Teach how to ask questions
  • Promote family participation in care

Documentation

  • Document child's coping style
  • Note family dynamics and concerns
  • Record effective communication strategies
  • Track relationship development

References and further reading

Educational resource only. Follow current Nursing and Midwifery Council guidance, local institutional protocols, scope of practice, and clinical supervision.

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