Pediatric Emergence Delirium (ED) is a challenging postoperative complication that can cause children to awaken from anesthesia in a state of agitation, confusion, and fear. This distressing experience not only impacts young patients but also places emotional strain on families and healthcare providers. Recognizing the importance of addressing this issue, Stephanie Nikas BSN, RN, Staff Nurse IV, a Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) nurse at Kaiser Permanente Vacaville Medical Center, was awarded the New Researcher Award and a $5,000 grant from the American Society of PeriAnesthesia Nursing (ASPAN).

With the support of her Vacaville PACU colleagues, Nikas is leading an evidence-based project to better understand and mitigate pediatric emergence delirium. A comprehensive literature review, a premeasurement of moral distress in the PACU when children are emerging noisily and with fright, and comprehensive work with the anesthesiologists is ongoing. This evidence-based project will safeguard children and improve their and their family’s surgical experience.