Recognizing the unique needs of pediatric emergency patients, the 31-bed Emory Johns Creek Hospital Emergency Department launched a multidisciplinary pediatric readiness initiative

Emory Johns Creek Hospital Emergency Department

focused on improving pediatric-specific equipment availability, staff education, policies and patient care processes. Through collaboration among nurses, physicians, respiratory therapy, pharmacy and leadership, the team standardized pediatric emergency preparedness and strengthened its ability to deliver safe, high-quality care to children and their families. As a result of these efforts, Emory Johns Creek’s Pediatric Readiness Score increased from 56 to 95, demonstrating a significant advancement in the department’s preparedness to care for pediatric patients in emergency situations.

Creating a safe environment for patients, visitors and health care professionals is a cornerstone of the emergency department culture. To address the increasing risk of workplace violence in health care, the department implemented a comprehensive prevention program that includes enhanced risk identification, behavioral escalation protocols, violence screening processes and AVADE de-escalation training for staff. By empowering team members with the skills and resources needed to recognize and respond to potentially violent situations, staff confidence grew and reporting and awareness increased. The work reinforced the department’s commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for everyone who enters the ED.