At Blythedale Children’s Hospital, a 24-hour staff of pediatric specialists support children who have been diagnosed with childhood cancer (including cancers of the brain and central nervous system, bone and soft tissue, as well as other solid tumors). These patients require the high-level attention of pediatricians, physiatrists, psychiatrists, and psychologists, as well as nurses, nutritionists, and physical, occupational, speech, and feeding therapists, and social workers. These specialists comprise the interdisciplinary team essential to meet the complex needs of children with cancer. A customized therapeutic regimen enables patients to regain independence, strength and function, while undergoing or recovering from chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. We recognize the vital importance of the ongoing relationship with the patient’s referring medical team, and participate in regular phone conferences, may and facilitate treatment protocols on
and off-site. Blythedale is the only specialty children’s hospital in New York State with the
capability of providing the highest level of medical care and rehabilitation for children
with complex medical needs. Blythedale is well-known for superior outcomes and the ability to help patients achieve their maximum potential and reach their treatment objectives. The goal is to help all of our young patients return to their families, schools and communities.
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State-of-the-art medical technology and monitoring equipment, combined with rigorous infection control protocols.
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Three positive pressure isolation rooms.
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Board-certified pediatricians 24/7 and nursing staff (70-80% R.N.) experienced in the administration of chemotherapy.
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Full-time specialists in psychiatry and psychology to address emotional,
developmental and adjustment needs and foster self-esteem.
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Registered dietitian provides casespecific, individualized nutritional plan for every patient upon admission, to maximize caloric intake and consider specific metabolic needs.
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24/7 pulmonary and respiratory support (18 full-time pediatric respiratory
therapists).
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Largest hospital-based pediatric therapy department in New York State, with 75 full-time pediatric therapists (physical, occupational, speech pathology and feeding).
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Full-time child life specialists provide emotional support, assistance with
strategies for coping with pain and anxiety, and procedural preparation, as well as parent and sibling support.
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TPN (Total Parenteral Nutrition) management, weaning and training expertise, including feeding via nasogastric, gastrostomy, and jejunostomy tubes.
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Adaptive equipment clinic on-site, with expertise in prosthetics
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Six full-time pharmacists, including a Board Certified Clinical Pharmacist, able to compound therapeutic agents on-site.
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Comprehensive discharge planning services.
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School programming at the Mt. Pleasant-Blythedale UFSD – the Hospital’s on-site K-12 public school
district to facilitate continued education during recovery.
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Unique Day Hospital program for patients who need intensive rehabilitation and/or medical care.