This newly developed field not only engages with patients through gaming bedside, but also creates experiences through 3D printing, virtual visitation events for celebrities, comedians, and Lego robotics. In addition, they help educate clinicians on the importance of gaming as a tool for patient distraction and coping. Virtual reality, augmented reality, and traditional gaming are used to get patients out of bed and moving daily while hospitalized.
Pediatric Gaming and Technology Specialists also enhance the patient experience and support healing through the creative use of gaming and a wide range of emerging technology platforms. These positions significantly increase the use of virtual and extended reality technologies as a tool for procedural support, such as anxiety reduction and distraction during mild to moderately painful procedures. Child’s Play has funded 38 Pediatric Gaming and Technology specialists in 33 hospitals across the US, Canada, and even Kenya.