Episode
When the Hospital Stay Ends: Understanding Pediatric Medical Traumatic Stress
- Published
- Jun 3, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 2393
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Summary
For many families, going home from the hospital feels like the finish line. But what happens when the emotional impact of a medical experience lingers long after discharge? On this episode of Inside the Children's Hospital, Katie Taylor sits down with Jen Aspengren, founder of Alongside Network, to discuss pediatric medical traumatic stress (PMTS), a common yet often overlooked experience that affects children, parents, siblings, and caregivers following serious medical events. Jen shares her family's journey after her infant son underwent life-saving airway surgery at just seven months old. While his physical recovery went well, the emotional effects lasted for years, leading Jen to discover a significant gap in support for families navigating life after hospitalization. Together, Katie and Jen explore: Jen's son's diagnosis of congenital subglottic stenosis and emergency airway surgery The unexpected emotional toll that followed after returning home What pediatric medical traumatic stress (PMTS) is and how it affects the entire family Common signs of traumatic stress in children, parents, and caregivers Why many families feel isolated after discharge despite receiving excellent medical care The importance of validation, community, and coping skills during recovery How small moments of connection from healthcare providers can build trust and resilience The impact of emotional support on long-term health outcomes and medical adherence How Alongside Network is helping families and healthcare providers better navigate medical trauma Jen also shares practical insights for healthcare professionals, highlighting how simple actions—such as a follow-up phone call or a few moments of acknowledgment—can make a lasting difference for families facing difficult diagnoses and hospi…