Family Participation in Rounds
Be apart of daily rounds, because your voice matters. Share updates, ask questions, and help shape the best care plan for your child.
Children’s Nebraska believes families are essential in their child's care. We welcome and encourage families to join in rounds since no one knows your child better than you. These daily discussions are your chance to share updates, ask questions and collaborate with the medical team to ensure the best possible care for your child.
What Are Rounds?
Rounds happen every day, usually in the morning, when doctors, nurses and other care team members gather to review your child’s care. Together, we’ll discuss how your child is doing, address any changes and create a plan for the day.
Your Role in Rounds
You are a vital part of your child’s care team. Your input helps us deliver care that is best designed for your child’s needs. If you’re comfortable in joining, we ask parents to
Tell the team about your child’s condition or any changes you’ve noticed.
Share questions or concerns you might have.
Ask for clarification on anything you don’t understand.
Confirm the plan with the team by the end of rounds.
During rounds, your child’s team will use the I-PASS acronym to lead discussions and ensure everyone, including families, has the same information. This can make it easier to communicate clearly and work together. Here’s what it stands for:
Illness Severity – How is your child doing today?
Patient Summary – Has anything changed since we last saw your child?
Action List – What is the plan for the day?
Situation Awareness & Contingency Plan – What might happen and how we’ll handle it?
Synthesis by Receiver – Does everyone understand the care plan?
Who Will Be There?
During rounds, you may meet several members of the care team, including:
Your child’s nurse
Medical students and residents
Fellow and attending doctors
Specialists engaged in your child’s treatment
Tips from Other Families
To make the most out of rounds, here are some helpful ideas from families who’ve been in your shoes:
Talk with your child’s nurse if you’re not comfortable talking in the group.
Write down your questions ahead of time.
Encourage your child to ask questions if they’re comfortable.
Ask the team to explain medical language if it’s unclear.
Reach out to the team later in the day if new concerns arise.
What You’ll Take Away
By taking part in rounds, you will have a clearer understanding of:
The day’s goals and care plan.
Steps the team is taking to support your child’s recovery.
How to contact your care team with additional questions.
Why Your Voice Matters
You are the expert on your child and your input is invaluable. By being a part of these conversations, you help us create a care plan tailored to your child’s unique needs. Together, we can deliver care that is thoughtful, collaborative and empowering.
If you have questions or need assistance during rounds, please feel free to speak with your child’s nurse or any member of the care team. We’re here to support you and your family every step of the way.
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