Robots for the Children in the Emergency Department
Published on June 16, 2025 by Jan Van Rossem
Since May 7th, UZ Brussel has been testing a social robot in its Emergency Department. The robot supports healthcare staff by comforting children and providing information to parents during stressful moments. The pilot project runs until July 1st. Through this initiative, the hospital aims to explore how technology can help create a warmer, more child-friendly care environment.
Two Key Functions for Parents and Children
Developed entirely in Belgium by Deduco, the robot offers two main functions. On the one hand, it provides parents with clear information—such as what tests will be performed and how they can explain these procedures to their children.
On the other hand, it acts as a digital hospital clown: distracting children during medical procedures such as injections or examinations and helping to pass the time with interactive projections.
The device features two screens: one at child’s eye level displaying playful visuals, and a second screen above offering practical information for parents.
During the month-long test phase, feedback is being gathered from children, parents, and healthcare professionals. The hospital’s own medical clown is also involved in the evaluation process.
"For children, a visit to the Emergency Department is often stressful and frightening," says Katia Van Vaerenbergh, pediatrician and emergency physician at UZ Brussel. "With this robot, we aim to comfort children in a playful way while supporting our staff in communicating with both children and their parents." -Dr. Van Vaerenbergh - Consultant in Emergency Medicine and Lead for Pediatric Care
Potential for Wider Use
While the robot is currently being tested in the Emergency Department, it could potentially be used in other areas of the hospital, such as the pediatric ward or intensive care unit.
The evaluation focuses on the quality of the user experience and the willingness of healthcare staff to work alongside the technology. By taking over aspects of communication and distraction, the robot allows healthcare providers to focus more fully on delivering medical care.
