Abstract:

Caring for children brings a unique challenge when providing patient education, as it must be child friendly and fun. Nursing staff at Phoenix Children's Hospital met this challenge by creating the journey board (JB), a colorful, whimsical game board that leads the patient and their family through an educational journey in a creative way. The purpose is to engage the patient and family in the educational process and use the JB to evaluate understanding. Each square on the game board corresponds with tools used to educate the child and family. Patient education can begin in the surgeon’s office using the JB and can continue in the pre-op area, the post-op area, and the patient care area. The goal is to enhance patient, family, and staff satisfaction while providing comprehensive patient and family education across the continuum of care.

Primary Author:

Cheryl M. Gallaga, BSN, RN, CPON
Clinical Nurse IV, Phoenix Children's Hospital
cstoneberger@phoenixchildrens.com