Feasibility of Light Therapy in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (ICU)

Feasibility of Light Therapy in the Pediatric ICU

The goal of this clinical trial is to understand how easy or difficult it is for critically ill children (4-17 years old) to have light therapy while in the pediatric ICU. Participants will have a light meter at their bedside to measure light levels. Each morning, a light box will be placed at their bedside. Children, family, and staff will be asked to completed feedback surveys regarding the light therapy. Study participation will continue for a maximum of 5 days.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Anticipated to remain admitted to the study hospital pediatric ICU for additional 48 hours
• English-speaking parent/legally authorized representative available at the bedside

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients unable to open their eyes to receive light therapy (Glasgow Coma Scale eye opening score of 1 or neuromuscular blockade)
• Patients with contraindications to light therapy (e.g., migraines, retinal disease, diseases associated with retinal complications, blindness, bipolar disorder, seizure disorder, traumatic brain injury)
• Suspected/identified neglect/abuse, Child Protective Services involvement, or ward of state
• Children receiving palliative/end-of-life care
• Unable to fit light box/cart in patient room