Pediatric Laceration Hack: Superhero Burrito Method | Hippo

You’re in the middle of suturing a pediatric facial laceration, and your tiny patient has just entered full wiggle mode. Arms are flailing, legs are kicking, and you’re starting to wonder if you’ve accidentally been cast in a live-action wrestling match.

If you’ve ever tried to immobilize a child using the papoose board method, you know it’s about as fun as herding a litter of caffeinated kittens. But fear not; there’s a new immobilization hero in town: the Superhero Burrito method.

What is the Superhero Burrito?

No, it’s not a Marvel-themed lunch special (although that sounds delicious). It’s a simple, effective, and downright easy way to immobilize pediatric patients while keeping everyone’s stress levels in check. Think swaddling meets superhero cape—an equal parts snug, safe, and kid-friendly technique.

Why the Papoose Board is Yesterday’s News

The papoose board has been the go-to for years, but let’s be honest: it’s not exactly winning any popularity contests. It can feel restrictive and intimidating for kids, and while it gets the job done, it doesn’t do much to soothe those tiny nerves (or their parents). Plus, strapping a child down like a tiny astronaut preparing for liftoff is hardly the calming vibe we aim for in pediatric care.

Enter the Superhero Burrito

The Superhero Burrito technique swaps straps and buckles for a cozy blanket wrap, creating a secure but gentle hold. Here’s how it works:

1. Choose your cape (aka a pillow case): Place the patient’s arms in the pillow case behind their backs and hype up the child’s superhero moment. This creates a fun cape for the patient and an even more important straight jacket-type immobilization for the clinician! 

1. Choose your burrito (aka a blanket): Grab a soft, stretchy blanket—bonus points if it’s got fun colors or superhero patterns. The cooler the design, the more likely your pint-sized patient will feel even more like a superhero.
   
   
2. Position your sidekick: Lay the child on the blanket with their shoulders just below the top edge. Remind them to get ready to finish the transformation into a superhero.
   
   
3. Wrap with care: Gently fold one side of the blanket over the child’s body, tucking it snugly under them. Repeat on the other side, leaving the child's head free to see their adoring fans (a.k.a. their caregivers and medical team). The finished product will look like a child-sized swaddle.

1. Reassure and distract: Use humor and storytelling, or let them pretend they’re flying through Gotham while you’re finishing up your suturing. A little imagination goes a long way. An iPad playing their favorite Miss Rachel episode works fine, too! 

Why It Works

The Superhero Burrito isn’t just cute—it’s easier for the patient and clinician and backed by common sense, a bit of psychology, and even some evidence! The gentle compression mimics the calming effect of swaddling, making kids feel safe and secure. Plus, the superhero narrative empowers them to take on the procedure with bravery and flair.

Happy Patients, Happy Providers

Switching to the Superhero Burrito method can transform your next pediatric procedure. Kids feel less scared, parents feel more at ease, and you’ll spend less time managing meltdowns and more time doing what you do best: providing excellent care.

So the next time you’re faced with a squirmy little one, ditch the papoose and channel your inner hero. Because every kid deserves to feel like a superhero—even if they’re temporarily wrapped like a burrito.