Coming to the emergency department (ED) can be a scary experience for a kid. But thanks to a blend of technology and tenderness, Aultman is making the experience more positive for young patients.

Within the Aultman ED is a seven-bed unit tailored to children from newborns to age 18. The specially trained pediatric staff members – including nurses and child life specialists – care for about 30,000 patients each year.

After attending a seminar on therapeutic iPad use at the Child Life Council national conference in 2015, Aultman Child Life Specialist Holly Bryan-Huth got the wheels in motion to obtain an iPad for the pediatric ED. “I was armed with the research and evidence-based markers to create a proposal for approval by the ED director – and then get clearance for safe and effective usage through IT,” Holly shared. “Once we had the approval, we were tasked with finding funds to purchase the iPad.”

Holly contacted the Children's Toy Fund in February 2016, a Canton nonprofit organization that provides toys, games and entertainment for chronically and terminally ill children. Earlier this month, the organization replied to Holly’s request – and provided an iPad, accessories and iTunes money to purchase apps that can be used in child life interventions.

“Our child life specialists, Holly Bryan-Huth and Lindsey Fiala, worked tirelessly to get an iPad donated to the pediatric department of the ED,” said Shelley Uhlir, assistant nurse manager in the Aultman ED. “This iPad is being used to educate children on procedures they may encounter in the ED.”

Holly and Lindsey use the iPad to teach children about everything from blood draws and stitches to CT scans and surgeries. “We also use the technology to provide developmentally appropriate diversion and distraction during those procedures that may be uncomfortable or take more time than the child has the natural ability to be still for,” Holly explained. “We even have child-friendly relaxation and guided imagery apps. The iPad is a great addition to our toolbox to teach and comfort kids, and we’re thrilled to have it.”