Jayesh C. Thakker , M.D.

Clinical

As a pediatric intensivist, my passion is to provide the best possible, evidence-based care to children in need of intensive care. I have been lucky to have trained at one of the premier critical care fellowship programs at a time when there was no specialization within pediatric critical care. It has allowed me to have a well-rounded interest and expertise in general pediatric critical care, cardiac critical and neurocritical care.

An important aspect of pediatric critical care is not only providing compassionate care to the child but also support the parents and families of those children at their most stressful and vulnerable times. To support them and provide them the appropriate guidance and outlook is extremely important.

The greatest reward working in the ICU is to see the parents’ and families’ emotions change from that initial distress and fear to one of happiness and content. It is a privilege to be part of that transition and provide a helping hand in the care of the severely ill or injured children.

Administrative

Serving as the Division Chief of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine for Children’s Nebraska and the department of Pediatrics at UNMC is an honor and a privilege. It provides opportunities to bring cutting-edge clinical care to our ICUs. We have achieved patient-care outcomes that are among the best in the country.

An important accomplishment is development of a strong, multi-faceted team of critical care physicians that work as a team with other staff and colleagues in a collaborative and respectful manner. The culture we have created encourages and provides support for continued professional growth of our faculty and other providers.

In addition to my role as division chief, I also serve as the Medical Director of the PICU at Nebraska Medicine.

Education

All levels and types of students, residents, fellows, and learners of various backgrounds and needs are our future. We have a commitment to actively participate in educational activities for these learners and provide an environment conducive for learning.

Quality improvement and Research

We have multiple QI projects with active participation from faculty, APPs, nurses, etc. to improve the workflows, quality of care, and clinical outcomes. We participate in several multi-institutional research projects and collaboratives.

Outreach

As a regional referral center for pediatric critical care, we believe in partnering with all regional health care providers and centers to share our expertise in the care of critically ill and/or injured children. We value these partnerships and believe such collaborations ultimately benefit all the communities so that all children in our region have a better chance to live a quality life.