It’s ‘game on’ for pediatric patients thanks to the charitable generosity of donors. Portable, medical-grade video game kiosks are brightening up the halls of Centra Lynchburg General Hospital Pediatric Unit and Emergency Department – and helping sick kids heal faster. Centra is now one of over 450 hospitals across the country using the kiosks. Combined, the Pediatric Unit and the Emergency Department at Lynchburg General treated over 7,000 pediatric patients last year alone.
Your generosity is making hospital stays more comfortable for local children and bringing smiles to young faces. The Centra Foundation recently approved funding for two GO Karts, portable gaming kiosks, for the Pediatric Unit and Emergency Department at Centra Lynchburg General Hospital.
However, it’s not all fun and games.
“We are always looking for ways to help kids heal while improving the patient experience,” said Kelly Mays, BSN, RN, pediatric clinical quality coordinator. “We thought these systems would be a great addition. Safe play can help reduce anxiety and pain. Enhancing well-being in the hospital is important and can even help patients heal faster.”
A distraction, sense of normalcy and familiarity can also be helpful for children when Caregivers are administering treatment.
One local father shared that he was grateful for the distraction during a tense time. “My son was there because he had a cough and his asthma was flaring. It was helpful because it allowed him to take his mind off of what was going on around him, at least in that moment. It helped calm him to be able to do something recreational. His brother was there with him, so he was able to play with his brother.”
Centra is one of over 450 hospitals across the country using the kiosks. Each kiosk includes a unit, gaming console, a wide selection of games, bright blue and green controllers, and signage showing that they are made possible by generous donations through the Centra Foundation.
Combined, the Pediatric Unit and the Emergency Department at Lynchburg General treated over 7,000 pediatric patients last year alone.
“We are so thankful to have this for both areas at the hospital,” Kelly said. “We are so grateful to the community. It was like Christmas around here when they arrived. They make a big difference for patients, families and those providing care.”
Your gifts through the Centra Foundation can help sick children and all who turn to Centra for care.
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