Child Hospitalization
Why do children have their own type of hospital?
Children have their own type of hospitals, because children are special people. They are small adults. They have very special needs medically and special needs emotionally and socially, especially during hospitalization. Some general hospitals have specific units designed for children. In most major cities in the United States, they do have a children's hospital specifically built, designed, equipped and staffed to meet the needs of children.
Can adults go to a children's hospital?
Adults cannot go to children's hospitals but sometimes children's hospitals will admit teenagers up to age 18.
How should I prepare the medical staff for my child's hospital stay?
First and foremost, be prepared to provide the hospital staff with a copy of your child's personal health record. Arrange for any medical records from any physicians that your child may have seen to be at the hospital in advance of the hospitalization, if at all possible. Be prepared to advise them of any special circumstances, dietary needs or any other issues that you are aware of that will help the medical staff care for your child.
What should my child bring for a hospital stay?
Bring any items that will reduce your child's anxiety about being away from home and in the children's hospital. Familiar objects, such as favorite toys, books or stuffed animals, may be helpful. Keep in mind, though, that items brought to the hospital may be easily lost, so clearly label your child's personal belongings as if they were going to camp. If your child's condition permits it, it may be very helpful for them to have their own pajamas.
Can I stay overnight with my child in the hospital?
Whether you can stay overnight at the hospital depends on your child's condition - the type of room they're in, the doctors' instructions and even the hospitals policy. Most hospitals will allow, and even encourage, parents to stay overnight in the hospital, although parents may not be able to sleep in the child's room, especially if the child is not in a private room
Can siblings stay overnight with my child in the hospital?
If the sibling is an adult and they're at the hospital instead of you, it may be possible for the sibling to stay overnight. If the sibling is a child, it is very unlikely that the hospital would allow them to stay overnight.
How should I prepare my child's siblings for a hospital visit?
It is likely that the hospital will provide you with information to use in preparing your other children to visit their sibling. Some hospitals arrange pre-admission visits for children scheduled for admission to the hospital. If they do, bring the siblings along as well. Children should be told in advance what to expect, what the rooms look like and what they will see. They should also be told that it is important to be very quiet and on good behavior because there are other children who may be sick or sleeping. They should also be told that they cannot climb on the beds, or touch any of the equipment or run in the hallways. Your children have to be on their best behavior in the hospital.
How often should I visit my child in the hospital?
How often you should visit your child in hospital depends on the age of your child and the nature and severity of their condition, but in most instances you should visit your child at least daily. Even the most independent and fearless fourteen year old feels somewhat bored, lonely and sometimes frightened when they're left in a hospital alone. It's very important to be as supportive as possible since this is a very stressful time in the life experience of most children.
Do children have the right to make medical decisions?
Whether children can make medical decisions depends on the laws of the state. In most states, minors under the age of 18 are unable to make their own medical decisions and those decisions are made by parents. However, if the parents consent to a course of treatment that has significant, severe risks and the minor objects, that case may be referred to the hospital's attorney. Also, some states have enacted laws that classify certain children as self-sufficient minors or emancipated minors and those are individual children who usually manage their own affairs financially and don't live at home. Most emancipated minors may make their own medical decisions. If there are any circumstances in which there is a conflict between parents and a child who is a patient, it is reasonable to expect that the hospital will consult with social services, and possibly legal counsel, to resolve the issue.
