Learning Objective #1: The learner will identify opportunities for improving environments for children and families in Pediatric Critical Care.

Learning Objective #2: The learner will be able to describe positive outcomes associated with strategies designed to improve the parental-child relationship during a pediatric critical illness.

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In a pediatric critical care environment that focuses on the highly technical components of patient care, the environment poses multiple barriers to the establishment or maintenance of a parental child relationship. In the past, family presence was limited especially in pediatric critical care based on the belief that it was in the best interest of the child. Based on theory generated about attachment and separation, coupled with strong consumer and community movements, acceptance of parental presence in pediatrics is supported. Using this research evidence, a group of pediatric critical care nurses are leading a process to improve the environment for children and families in a PICU. Initial initiatives have focused on creating environments that encourage attachment, togetherness, empowerment, and the promotion of breastfeeding. The outcomes of these initiatives have had positive health benefits for children and families and have engaged staff in improving family care in pediatric critical care.