Rockets shimmering and colors twinkling
Flashes of red, white and blue sparkling overhead
This might seem like the 4th of July to most of us, but in the Radiology Department at Cincinnati Children’s you can see fireworks any time of year. These “fireworks” are part of the SNOZELEN, a light projector that displays a variety of images on the ceiling, wall or cameras in Radiology. The SNOZELEN has a number of image wheels that rotate in the projector creating light effects that can be calming or engaging for your child during their imaging or procedure. Many radiology procedure rooms have large equipment, and this can often feel intimating or overwhelming to children and families. Using the SNOZELEN’s colorful pictures or images can help children feel more reassured. Other children looking at the SNOZELEN’s moving pictures may use their imagination, begin conversations, or play “I Spy.” This is an added benefit to helping children cope successfully during their procedures.
Additionally, the Radiology Department uses the multi-sensory stimulation of a bubble tube with changing lights, colors and fiber optics for visual and tactile incentive. This system is a cart on wheels and can be used in a variety of procedure rooms in Radiology and is often beneficial with children with sensory or developmental disorders. Children using this specialized SNOZELEN product will watch bubbles and balls rise and fall in a water tube while colors change on fiber optic strands. This not only creates a soothing environment, but can also be a fun intervention that increases positive coping during a sometimes stressful healthcare encounter.
No matter what time of year you and your child come to the Radiology Department, keep an eye out for the “fireworks” or other fun sensory gizmos and gadgets.
Alex is a radiologist and the Neil D. Johnson Chair of Radiology Informatics. In this role, he helps to manage the information systems used by the Radiology department. Clinically, Alex is the Assistant Director of thoracoabdominal imaging. His research interests include liver disease, liver tumors, inflammatory bowel disease, and appendicitis.
