They can intervene to help resolve problems encountered during a hospital stay, including providing helpful information in crisis situations. Pharmacists prepare and distribute medications and are available to provide information on how to use a medication properly, how drugs may interact with each other, and how a drug may affect the progress of a disease. Physical therapists treat infants and children with acute or prolonged physical dysfunction or pain, with emphasis on movement disorders. Radiologic technologists perform X-rays, ultrasound, CAT scans, MRI scans, and other tests to help physicians with diagnosis and treatment. Recreation therapists use play, recreation, education, self-expression and theories of child development to help normalize the hospital experience and reduce the stress children and families associate with health care experiences.
Respiratory therapists focus on restoring and maintaining proper and healthful breathing.
School teachers help patients in grades K-12 keep up their studies. They contact students' home districts and facilitate school re-entry upon hospital discharge. Social workers offer crisis intervention, information and referral to community agencies and other services. Speech therapists evaluate and treat children with communication problems. Volunteers are community members who generously give their time and talents to the hospital.