Barts and The London Children's Hospital | Meet the team | A day in the life of
A day in the life of
...Michelle Teague, play specialist.
"Contrary to what some may say, my job isn't about playing games all day - though that is one of the many fun aspects! Our work is very important as we can help children to recover from their treatments more quickly.
I qualified three years ago, and in my job no two days are the same. I start at 8.30am and run through the list of children on my ward and see which children will be admitted later on. I’ll find out why each child is coming into hospital and assess what stage of treatment the other children on the ward are at. In one day I can work with up to 12 children – varying from little babies to 17-year-olds. This means I get to use my full range of play specialist skills.
The main part of my job is to make a child’s time here as comfortable as possible. I help in their recovery by relaxing them, keeping them occupied and taking their mind off any pain they’re in.
I give each child a cheery hello, introduce myself to the new ones and make sure they all have something to do. I will help prepare a child for their surgery or treatment by explaining what’s about to happen - using dolls, teddies and real hospital equipment, depending on their age. This way I can reassure them and remove any fears.
Another aspect of the job is to help children relax. We use everything from breathing techniques to something called guided imagery to help the children cope with any pain they’re in. Guided imagery helps a child to visualise their favourite place or things they like doing. You ask them to tell you about and it diverts their mind from the discomfort they may be in.
Distraction is a key part of the play specialist’s role too. When a child is having injections or stitches, I will help to take their mind off what is happening – this also makes it easier for the doctor or nurse treating them. Distraction can involve blowing them some bubbles, squeaking noisy toys or flicking through picture books, again, depending on their age.
The days can be long but they’re immensely rewarding. I try not to take things home with me, but you’re only human and you can’t help but build up a close friendship with many of the children – but if that helps make their stay happier and helps them recover quicker then it’s got to be a good thing.”
