ELIZABETH SETON PEDIATRIC CENTER

Palliative care services are often a major component of the care of infants, children and adolescents who have complex medical, physical, developmental, and psychosocial needs. At the Elizabeth Seton Pediatric Center we have placed special emphasis on the needs of residents, families and staff in anticipation of and during times of irreversible illness and death. The goal is to provide comfort from the disease process, while also addressing psychological, social and spiritual matters not only for the resident, but also for the family and caregivers. Quality of life is improved through traditional and complementary treatments, including pain management, Reiki, mental health services and interfaith, interdenominational pastoral care. Staff education in palliative care methods and practices is ongoing.

We realize the stress and difficulty that often accompanies families when their child is ill and cannot be at home. There are times when parents look for someone to speak with, share their concerns about their child, and help them find emotional balance during this time. Mental Health Counseling offers confidential supportive counseling in a quiet, space and qualified personnel to assist you during your child’s time with us. Our Goal: To offer parents the opportunity for support as they manage stress and grief; to be available for help in coping with the medical prognosis of their child; to offer counseling in grief related stress; to offer such services in a quiet, confidential, and peaceful space. There is no fee for this service.

At Elizabeth Seton Pediatric Center licensed respiratory therapists are a vital part of our transdisciplinary neighborhood teams. They provide twenty-four hour treatment to ventilator dependent children as well as those with tracheotomies, Bi-Pap, C-Pap, and other respiratory needs. Working closely with the pulmonologist, our respiratory therapists use innovative therapeutic techniques to optimize each child's pulmonary status. Their involvement in all care areas enables our families and children, even those who are ventilator dependent, to experience the joys of childhood in the classroom, on the playground, and during neighborhood outings.

A team of Registered Dietitians provide a full range of professional services including assessment, monitoring, special diets, supplements and nutrition education.

Living in a long-term care facility can create new challenges, fears and anxiety for children and their families. One of the goals of the music and art therapies and child life team at Elizabeth Seton Pediatric Center is to help families adjust to this new environment. Other goals of the Child Life & Music and Art Therapy Department is to promote normal growth and development; reduce the stress of hospitalization and provide support to children and their families through art, music and play.

The Child Life & Music and Art Therapy Department staff is comprised of Certified Child Life Specialists, Board Certified Music Therapists and Registered Board Certified Art Therapists who work closely with the interdisciplinary team to provide the best possible care for each child and family. 

Click below for more information about our Music Therapy program:

www.musictherapy-setonpediatric.org