Children arriving at Munson Medical Center’s Emergency Department often face challenges expressing themselves due to fear, injury, developmental differences such as autism spectrum disorder, or even simple shyness. To help bridge this communication gap, the ED team has introduced visual communication cards featuring simple images and phrases — such as “I’m in pain” or “Too loud” — that allow children to point to what they are feeling or need.
The communication cards are part of a broader initiative to enhance pediatric care in the ED, led by Crystal Pulice, DO, ED Chair and Assistant Medical Director at MMC. They are used alongside newly implemented “pediatric carts,” stocked with calming tools to help kids feel safe, like noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, and other calming aids (to learn more about the carts, read this story).
“These cards help us connect with children in a way that is both compassionate and effective,” said Dr. Pulice. “Every child communicates differently, and this tool allows us to better meet each child’s unique needs.”