Enhancing Patient Experience at Montreal Children's Hospital

TL;DR

Child Life Specialists are tasked with bringing joy and comfort to children undergoing long-term care, often during very challenging treatments. Following their victory at the Montreal Hacking Health competition, Piccles partnered with Nurses and Child Life Specialists at Montreal Children's Hospital to pilot a project aimed at fostering community and connection among young patients through the therapeutic act of coloring.

The Challenge

Children in the Oncology Unit have severely weakened immune systems, making sterilization and isolation critical. The challenge was to create a sense of community and engagement without requiring these kids to leave their rooms or even their beds.

The Piccles Activation

On a brisk May day, 10 kids in the Oncology Unit participated in the Piccles pilot from their rooms. The goal was simple: use the cathartic act of drawing to help these children connect and feel a sense of community in a safe and engaging way.

Interactive Engagement

The session began with each child drawing their self-portrait, which allowed them to express themselves and see the faces of their fellow participants.

Next, they collaborated on drawing their favorite magical creatures. This activity sparked imagination and joy, as the kids wondered about the identities of their co-creators.

The final drawing prompt was to illustrate someone who lives in a pineapple under the sea, a fun and familiar reference that brought smiles to everyone’s faces.

Building Connection

Throughout the session, the children were able to see each other’s drawings in real time, fostering a sense of community despite their physical isolation. The drawings were saved and printed out, allowing the kids to decorate their hospital rooms with their collective artwork, creating a visual reminder of their shared experience.

The Impact

The pilot project was a resounding success. The children had a wonderful time, eagerly participating and connecting with their peers. The ability to engage in a shared activity from the safety of their rooms not only provided entertainment but also built a supportive community among the young patients.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Piccles and Montreal Children's Hospital showcases the potential of interactive and creative activities to enhance patient experiences in healthcare settings. By leveraging the simple yet powerful act of drawing, Piccles helped bring joy, connection, and a sense of normalcy to children facing difficult treatments.

As a follow-up, the Hospital wanted to explore Piccles' use in the dialysis unit where patients have 4+ hours to wait together and there aren't the same concerns about the immune systems of the patients.