Children’s of Alabama has a top Level 1 Trauma Center—what you need to know

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If you’re one of the more than 15 million people who tuned into “The Pitt” on HBO each week, you might’ve considered what it’s like working in a busy emergency or trauma room. While there’s a fair share of stress and excitement, it’s also a chance to really make a positive difference—especially in the lives of children.

We talked to Drew Payne, the Trauma & Emergency Preparedness Coordinator at Children’s of Alabama, to see what it’s like in the real world.

Keep reading to learn more about what a typical day looks like, why this job is so important and how you can find a meaningful starring role alongside Drew and his teammates.

From ER nurse to Trauma Center Coordinator

Drew Payne came to Children’s of Alabama as a fresh UAB grad and immediately went to work as an ER Nurse. After five years, an opportunity opened to become the coordinator of the Trauma Center.

“I went into the emergency department because trauma always grabbed my attention. When I had this opportunity, I jumped on board and fell in love with it.”

Drew Payne, Trauma & Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, Children’s of Alabama

In his role, Drew:

• Trains new nurses on equipment + what’s expected of them when patients arrive
• Helps with research related to trauma data collection
• Works closely with other hospitals to keep strong community partnerships

“What drew me into this role was education. I love to teach people about trauma care and translate what I’ve learned to newer nurses.

Plus, I love watching teams come together and see how they interact while working toward ultimately one goal: the best possible outcome for our patients.”

Drew Payne, Trauma & Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, Children’s of Alabama

What does “Level 1 Trauma Center” mean?

During our conversation, Drew was quick to shout out his team for all the hard work they do for Alabama children and families.

Earlier this year, the Alabama Department of Public Health redesignated Children’s as a Level 1 Pediatric Center, and this is what it means:

• Cares for approximately 500-600 trauma patients annually 
• Maintains a surgically directed critical care service 
• Provides trauma surgery coverage + capabilities 24 hours a day, 7 days a week 
• Serves as a leader in trauma education, research, resident + fellow training and community outreach 
• Utilizes a multidisciplinary team approach to trauma + critical care management

Earlier this year, the Alabama Department of Public Health redesignated Children’s of Alabama as a Level 1 Pediatric Center.

“We’ve shown that we put in the effort and abide by the criteria that the state set up for hospitals to be a Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Center.

It’s important, not just for our organization, but to show our community that we put in the extra work to provide the best care for all patients. We’re very proud of that.”

Drew Payne, Trauma & Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, Children’s of Alabama

Work for a team that makes a difference

“Every day is something different. In one shift, I may not see a trauma at all, while another day or even later on a shift, I’ll see two or three. It’s always a surprise.

That’s important in this role: being flexible.

Drew Payne, Trauma & Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, Children’s of Alabama

Drew’s team couldn’t pull off being a Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Center without the help of each other—and that includes everyone at Children’s of Alabama.

We hear it from every employee we’ve met: Children’s of Alabama is a great place to work.

“At Children’s, you really are part of something bigger than yourself. It’s more than just your role; you’re part of a team that’s really committed to providing the highest level of care. And I love being a part of it.”

Drew Payne, Trauma & Emergency Preparedness Coordinator, Children’s of Alabama

Join a team that makes a big difference—see open roles at Children’s of Alabama.

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