Line Klingen Gjærde, MD, PhD is a pediatric resident at Rigshospitalet, Denmark, and a postdoctoral researcher and project leader at the new children’s hospital, Mary Elizabeth’s Hospital. Trained in both clinical pediatrics and epidemiology, her work bridges research, education, and clinical pediatric care.
Her research focuses on improving children’s experiences in hospital, particularly in relation to medical procedures. Since 2019, she has co-led the development of child-centred, play-based approaches aimed at reducing distress, strengthening understanding, and supporting cooperation. Her work highlights the importance of age-appropriate communication, children’s rights, and the often-overlooked “hidden curriculum” that shapes professional behaviour in pediatric settings.
She is actively involved in medical education and has developed and delivered training programmes in pediatric communication and procedural support for medical students, pediatric residents, and interdisciplinary healthcare professionals. Her research integrates clinical insight, co-creation with children and families, and applied educational interventions to support safer, more compassionate, and developmentally appropriate care.