Pediatric Nurse Uses 3D-Printed Dinosaurs to Comfort Hospitalized Children

Comfort Through Play

• 🏥 Childlife specialists acknowledge that children often arrive at the hospital feeling afraid and uncertain about their experience.
• 💡 Mike Jardina, a pediatric nurse, works to transform potentially dark situations into brighter ones for young patients.
• 🧸 Introducing play is a key strategy to ease children's anxiety and facilitate assessments, creating a positive first impression.

The Dinosaur Gift

• 🖨️ For years, Mike has spent hours at home customizing and creating 3D-printed dinosaurs to use as gifts.
• 🎁 He brings these homemade dinosaurs to the hospital and hands them out to children he treats.
• 💰 Mike personally covers the materials and operational costs for his 3D printers out of his own pocket.
• 🦕 He has given away approximately 1500 to 1600 dinosaurs and switches themes for holidays.

Impact on Patients and Families

• ✨ The difference these dinosaurs make is more meaningful than Mike might realize, providing a welcome distraction.
• 💙 For example, a boy named Mason, who visited the ER after a head injury, still keeps the dinosaur Mike gave him close, weeks later.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Mike's initiative helps families focus on something else during what can be a very stressful time.

Rewarding Experience

• 😊 The most rewarding aspect for Mike is seeing children smile, a reaction he finds contagious.
• 💖 He finds fulfillment in caring for people during their worst moments and making a positive difference.