Foster Care Clinical Pathway — Outpatient Specialty Care

Trauma-informed Care

The majority of children in foster care have experienced trauma related to abuse and/or neglect. Other stressors related to foster care placement include separation from family members, placement instability, and changes in school.

Extreme, long-lasting, and/or multiple stressors can alter brain development and other biologic systems, especially in the absence of protective factors. This leads to increased risk for behavior issues, cognitive deficits, mental health problems, developmental delays and physical health problems, both in the short and long term.

A trauma-informed approach to care can help to improve outcomes. Trauma and toxic stress responses should be evaluated and addressed throughout the assessment.

Trauma-informed office visit:

  • Be mindful of trauma history during the assessment
  • May need to allow extra time
  • Highlight strengths and talents
  • Tips to help cope with medical procedures such as blood draws can be found at:
    Coping With Healthcare Procedures  

Assess for trauma and its health consequences. Refer to community agencies who can provide trauma-informed services.

Provide anticipatory guidance related to toxic stress.

Additional information and resources are listed to the right of the pathway.