Pedia Pals was launched by Wendy and Ed Powell in August 1998. In 2000, the pediatric medical supply company and manufacturer acquired ZooPals®, which manufactured and marketed pediatric exam tables in the shape of smiling animals. In March of 2009, the company was passed on to second generation family owners Amanda and Jon Powell. Both having served in the Air Force, and Air Force Academy graduates with Environmental and Mechanical Engineering degrees respectively.
Pedia Pals designs, manufacturers and markets pediatric medical supplies and equipment.
One of a Kind Pediatric Exam Tables
The idea behind Pedia Pals’ child friendly pediatric exam table began with Ann Kochsiek, founder of ZooPals. Her son, Ry, had been diagnosed with leukemia at age 4. Ann discovered that taking him to the hospital for treatment involved examinations on a table that Ry and other children agreed was “cold, scary, and very unfriendly.” Ann designed and patented a number of animal-shaped exam tables that have become favorites in pediatric offices all over the world. Today, Ann is Pedia Pals’ V. P. of Marketing. Ry is a healthy college graduate.
"Our patients love the ZooPals tables. Many families enter the room and begin to talk about the animals. Kids enjoy being up on the tables. The tables greatly contribute to the warm ambiance of the clinic."
ROBERT BRAYDEN, MD.
CHILD HEALTH CLINIC
THE CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL, DENVER, CO
Best Practices
The Pedia Pals Experience
Best Practices Make the Difference
A Pedia Pals environment relaxes patients and parents. And Pedia Pals instruments and accessories together with the right words make any examination or procedure go quicker and easier.
We've been collecting best practices from our customers over the years, and will have a blog coming soon for sharing.
Here are some helpful hints from pediatric professionals:
Elly the Elephant Otoscope Attachment
We use Pedia Pals Elly the Elephant Otoscope Attachment to introduce patients to a new friend – not a cold, scary medical instrument. We tell patients: "My friend Elly just loves to whisper secrets. Can Elly whisper a secret in your ear? Great! Now you have to sit really still and be very quiet so you can hear what she's saying."
We often then whisper a compliment, like "you're a very good girl."
It really works.
Jamaal Giraffe Reflex Hammer
When using Pedia Pals' Jamaal Giraffe Reflex Hammer, let the patient become comfortable with the character. We tell patients that "Jamaal likes to be held and give kisses," and then ask if they would like to hold Jamaal. Then explain that "Jamaal wants to give them a kiss on the knee," and ask if they can show you where their knee is. When a patient points out his/her knee, we reassure with comments like: "That's right. Jamaal thinks you're really smart!" Now, when Jamaal gives our patient a 'kiss on the knee,' it tickles. The result is that we can test reflexes more quickly while comforting our patients.
Benjamin Bear Blood Pressure Kit
A Benjamin Bear Blood Pressure Kit relaxes our patients by transforming a blood pressure cuff and bulb into a new friend. We explain: "This is Benjamin, and he likes to give cuddly bear hugs. I'm going to put this around your arm and hand you this little bear (the bulb). Now, if you give the little bear a hug, you'll feel Benjamin hug you right back." Because patients are engaged in the procedure, they don't pay as much attention to the pressure. We get more accurate readings as well.
Retractamals ID and Security Badges
Because the ID holder is cute for one, and stronger than most other ID holders. We can not only put our badges, our unit key and our mini scissors on it, but we have not had to replace the holder every couple of months."
Cleaning tips:
Pedia Pals Exam Tables, Instruments, and Accessories are designed and manufactured to be easily cleaned and sanitized. Pedia Pals recommends the use of isopropyl alcohol, Lysol™ spray, or antibacterial germicide soap to clean Instruments or Accessories.
Exam tables and cushion should be cleaned with isopropyl alcohol, or germicidal soap. Do not use acetone on exam table surfaces.
Stethoscope covers may be machine washed and dried. Between uses, apply Lysol spray or germicidal foam on the face of the covers or other accessories. This helps reduce the spread of germs.
