Kids follow dolphins, surfboards to surgery and better health

Essentia Health-Fargo has introduced a brightly colored, ocean-themed sensory path in its pre-op space to make the environment more engaging for kids. Decorated with bubbles, dolphins, turtles, sharks and starfish, the path helps reduce stress and motivate children before surgery.

"The sensory path has always been a very helpful and motivating tool to offer our pediatric patients as a support to get them out of bed and moving and engaging to heal quicker," said Michelle Finneman, a child life specialist at Essentia.

First introduced in 2020 in the inpatient unit, the sensory path creates a cohesive environment throughout the unit, keeps kids moving and provides sensory input.

"They also have a developmental aspect as they provide the appropriate sensory input to decrease sensory-seeking behaviors that we may see in some kids who have autism or ADHD," Finneman said.

Essentia Health-Fargo also offers remote control cars for surgical patients age 2 to 9, allowing them to drive themselves back to the operating room. Having options and choice helps pediatric patients participate in their own care.

"One way isn’t going to necessarily work for all,” Finneman said. “For example, some might love our remote cars, but others might be a little hesitant. Development age plays a role, too."