The Dorothy B. Hersh Pediatric Emergency Department at The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital has been recognized with the 2025 Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) Lantern Award. This award honors departments that demonstrate leadership, practice, education, and advocacy resulting in improved patient care and staff well-being. The pediatric emergency department is one of the largest in New Jersey, featuring 14 beds and a minor-care treatment area. This marks the second time it has received the Lantern Award.
“These recipients demonstrate excellence in practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovation that make their departments exceptional places for patients receiving care as well as for the staff working in them,” said ENA President Ryan Oglesby, PhD, MHA, RN, CEN, CFRN, NEA-BC. Fewer than 100 emergency departments were selected this year.
Pam Harmon, DNP, MSN, RNC-NIC, director of the Women and Children’s Division at The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital stated: “We are honored to receive the Lantern Award from the Emergency Nurses Association because it is a testament to the skill, compassion, and commitment our pediatric emergency department brings to every child and family who walks through our doors. We are proud to create a place where children receive not only expert medical attention but also comfort and understanding during some of their most vulnerable moments.”
Each year Saint Peter’s provides pediatric emergency care to about 22,000 infants, children and young adults; approximately 1,800 of these patients are admitted for further inpatient care. The department includes services such as a dedicated Child Life specialist who supports both emotional needs of children and families during visits by using therapeutic play and coping techniques. If a child requires admission from the emergency department to inpatient care, this specialist helps ensure a smooth transition.
The ENA recognition was partly due to efforts aimed at making visits less stressful for children and families. Staff undergoes inclusive training designed to support all patients—including those with autism or sensory disorders—by focusing on communication styles and behavioral cues unique to each child. Adjustments include clear communication methods as well as sensory accommodations like fidget toys for self-regulation or headphones for noise reduction.
As part of its ongoing initiatives in accessible healthcare delivery for children with diverse needs—and following specialized staff training—the hospital achieved Certified Autism Center status from The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).
More information about this year’s Lantern Award recipients can be found on the Emergency Nurses Association website.
For details about pediatric services at The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital visit saintpetershcs.com/childrenshospital or call 732.565.KIDS [5437].
