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Evaluation of psychology practice models in the pediatric intensive care unit

Balistreri, Kathryn A., Hagan, Mary B., Canavera, Kristin, Marik, Patricia K., Smith, Jacquelyn, Balistreri, Sarah E., Barakat, Lubna, Berridge, Kevin, Michelson, Kelly N., Rothschild, Charles B. and Davies, W. Hobart (2025) Evaluation of psychology practice models in the pediatric intensive care unit. Clinical Practice in Pediatric Psychology. ISSN 2169-4826

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Identification Number: 10.1177/21694826251337144

Abstract

Objective: Pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) patients and their families experience significant distress, which can increase risk for post-PICU psychological morbidity. Pediatric psychologists are well-suited to mitigate the psychological impact of PICU admissions. However, a comprehensive assessment of PICU psychology practice models is lacking. This mixed-methods study aimed to evaluate current and propose improved PICU psychology practice models. Methods: Fourteen participants (13 psychologists and 1 intern) from 13 United States institutions completed a 39-item survey and participated in focus groups. Participants described their institution’s current psychology practice model and recommended improvements. Results: Most institutions (77%) employed a hybrid model involving service-specific psychologists (i.e., psychologists dedicated to specific pediatric populations who follow their patients in the PICU) and consultation-liaison psychologists (i.e., psychologists who serve multiple inpatient units including the PICU). Psychologists embedded in the PICU were less common (8%). Participants recommended a model wherein psychologists have dedicated PICU time, citing benefits including improved patient/family identification, more specialized PICU knowledge, increased availability, and better medical team relationships. Conclusions: Most PICU psychology practice models use a hybrid approach, yet psychologists recommend an embedded model wherein psychologists have dedicated PICU time. Future research should evaluate improved practice models from the viewpoint of a more diverse group of psychology providers and other stakeholders (e.g., physicians, patients, and family members).

Item Type: Article
Additional Information: © 2025 The Author(s)
Divisions: Psychological and Behavioural Science
Subjects: R Medicine > RJ Pediatrics > RJ101 Child Health. Child health services
B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Date Deposited: 20 May 2025 10:30
Last Modified: 20 May 2025 10:30
URI: http://eprints.lse.ac.uk/id/eprint/128148

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