Trauma Program

Children's Hospital Boston recognizes that it's the family who is the most important source of emotional support and comfort for a child. With this in mind, the family's presence at the child's side is welcomed in most scenarios.

Every effort is also made to ensure a smooth flow of information between care providers and the family. Foreign language interpreters are available when needed.

Patients with severe injuries may be admitted into the hospital to the Medical/Surgical Intensive Care Unit. Here, teams of pediatric medical and surgical critical care specialists work together to care for injured children. Other patients may be cared for on inpatient units that focus on specific needs: neurosurgery, orthopedics, adolescent surgery or infant/toddler surgery.

The injury of a child can be a nerve-racking experience on many levels. The Trauma team understands this and works hard to lessen child and family stress. We are available to answer questions and talk through any concerns. Additional support is provided by the hospital's Family Support Services, which provides emotional support and helpful assistance with matters related to a child's stay, and the Center for Families, which helps families find the information they need to understand their child's medical condition and take part in their care.

Outpatient clinics such as those within the Brain Injury Program and the Orthopedic, Neurosurgery and General Surgery programs provide support for injuries that could affect a child's long-term development.