New artworks a welcome distraction

17 July 2012

St John of God Murdoch’s Emergency Department has become a more welcoming place for children with the recent arrival of some new artworks.

A set of eye-catching distraction therapy artworks were recently installed in the Emergency Department comprising two painted chairs, and an artwork 'window' for the wall.

Designed by Joanne West Cornish, a leading gift designer and furniture maker and illustrator in consultation with the Emergency Department team, the artworks are designed to stimulate positive associations with beloved pets, favourite toys, fairy-tales, books and nursery rhymes.

While the Murdoch ED caregivers have always provided a comforting and warm environment for children, the new artworks are an example of ‘diversion therapy’ which can help reduce fear and anxiety.

St John of God Murdoch Hospital Nurse Manager Emergency Department Gail Chambers said medical procedures and a hospital environment could be traumatic for some children.

“We use distraction therapy in our Emergency Department to help reduce fear in children, which can help the time pass faster - their fear can make treatment times seem forever!" she said.

"We find that by diverting the child’s focus from what the nurse/doctor is doing we can reduce anxiety in the child, which helps reduce anxiety of the parents and caregivers. A more relaxed and cooperative child can also reduce treatment time."

"We have a number of initiatives to ensure our young patients feel more relaxed in the Emergency Department. Apart from a range of puzzles, books and activities, we have a television in our paediatric cubicles. We have also found parents' iPhones and iPads have been very effective distraction therapies,” said Ms Chambers.

St John of God Murdoch Hospital Director of Emergency Medicine Dr Paul Bailey said the management of minor procedures was a difficult aspect of emergency medicine practice.

“Distraction therapy can assist with the treatment of a distressed child requiring a minor procedure or examination. This approach reflects Murdoch's commitment to holistic care and utilising arts in health care to promote a healing environment," he said.

"In our specially decorated paediatric ward (St Gabriel's), we also use a range of age appropriate games and toys to assist our younger patients to relax during their stay. The ward also features Radio Lollipop volunteers who assist our team of dedicated caregivers," said Dr Bailey.

Designer Joanne West Cornish’s colourful past took her from illustration and graphic design to in-demand furniture and gift designer and manufacturer within only a few months.

Inspired by a dream, the US born designer’s chairs made their way into major department store catalogues and international success before a family tragedy forced a change in direction.

She moved to Perth in 2007, where her artistic skills were noticed by former Murdoch Arts Consultant Paula Silbert.

“I worked with Dr Andrew Jan (Murdoch Emergency Department) and Leanne Milligan (Murdoch Director Planning and Strategy)  to create pieces that helped take away the pain,” said Ms West Cornish.

Ms West Cornish said she hoped the chairs were having the desired effect and was excited and proud to be involved with the hospital.

For more information about Ms West Cornish’s work visit www.joannewestdesign.com

IMAGE: Artist Joanne West Cornish and Registered Nurse Kristie Thomson with the artworks