Hailey Tran
Visiting a child in the hospital can be a great way to show your love and support. However, it's important to consider the child's feelings and health restrictions before planning a visit. Children in hospitals often miss their friends, pets, toys, and daily activities, so a visit from a familiar face can bring comfort and security. It is advisable to call the child's family before visiting to avoid interrupting important medical procedures. When visiting, it is crucial to maintain a positive attitude and engage in conversations about topics that interest the child, such as school or hobbies. Visitors should also be mindful of the child's health condition and avoid discussing their illness in front of them. Additionally, hospitals have guidelines and restrictions, such as visitor limits and health screening, to ensure the safety and well-being of their young patients.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of visitors | Inpatient Units: Up to 4 family caregivers/siblings/visitors at a time during regular visiting hours (9 a.m. to 9 p.m.) and 1 overnight (9 p.m. to 6 a.m.). CCCU/PICU/NICU, Emergency Department, and Outpatient clinics: Up to 2 family caregivers at a time. |
| Visitor health status | Visitors should not be sick or have been sick in the last week. They should self-screen for symptoms of a communicable illness before coming to the hospital and upon arrival. |
| Photography | Do not take photographs or videos of other patients, their families, or staff without permission. Do not post any media online without consent. |
| Assistance dogs | Allowed if they are clean and have up-to-date immunizations. |
| Smoking | Not allowed anywhere on hospital property. |
| Visitor age | Visiting with a pre-school child should be discouraged due to infection risk. Children over 4 often find it helpful to visit a sick relative, but if they are hesitant, they should not be forced. Adolescents should be supported and encouraged to ask questions. |
| Visitor behavior | Wash hands upon entering. Follow any infection control policies, such as wearing a mask or gown. Refrain from bringing food or flowers. Keep noise levels low. |
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What You'll Learn
Be mindful of the child's emotions and fears
When visiting a sick child in the hospital, it is important to be mindful of their emotions and fears. Children often experience anxiety, aggression, and anger when hospitalized due to their lack of control over their environment and the medical procedures they undergo. As a visitor, there are several ways to be mindful of and help alleviate these emotions and fears:
Familiarity and Consistency
Children often fear meeting new people, especially in a hospital setting where they have little choice over procedures and examinations. Familiar faces can provide security, friendship, and support. When visiting, try to act as you normally would with the child. Smile, stay calm, and interact with them. Keep the conversation positive and talk about things that interest them outside of their illness, such as school, sports, or toys.
Information and Preparation
Before the visit, explain to the child what the hospital and ward will be like, including the presence of medical equipment, noise, and the patient's potential physical appearance, such as swelling or tubes. This preparation helps reduce fear and shock. If the child is older, share information about the patient's illness and what to expect during the visit. Be honest and provide age-appropriate explanations to help them understand the situation.
Acknowledging Emotions
Listen to the child's concerns and acknowledge their feelings. If they express fear or anxiety, validate their emotions by saying something like, "I understand this makes you scared, and it's okay to feel that way." Be patient and supportive, and share your own feelings and coping strategies, such as going for walks, to encourage them to open up and manage their emotions effectively.
Respecting Boundaries
Some children may be too sick to enjoy a visit, or they may simply not want visitors. Respect their boundaries and preferences. Sometimes, a brief check-in with the child's family can be a loving reminder of your support without overstepping their limits. Always call the child's family before visiting to avoid interrupting important medical discussions or treatments.
Infection Control
Hospitals have strict infection control policies to protect patients from outside germs, which can be life-threatening for immunocompromised children. Follow these policies, including handwashing, and refrain from visiting if you have been sick recently or have any signs of infection. These measures are crucial for the safety of the sick child you are visiting.
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Prepare the child for the hospital environment
Preparing children for the hospital environment is key to making the experience positive for them. Here are some tips to help with this:
Provide simple and age-appropriate explanations
It is important to start the discussion early on. Provide simple explanations about what is happening and repeat them often. Be mindful of the child's age and developmental stage when explaining the reasons for their symptoms and treatment. For instance, younger children may not understand illness, so focus on reassuring them and normalizing the hospital experience. You can do this by reading books, such as "Katie Goes to the Hospital" by Barbara Taylor Cork, or by using medical play kits at home. For teens, provide more detailed information about the diagnosis and treatment, and remember that their peer groups are important; try to arrange for visits or calls with their friends.
Address your own fears
It is normal for parents or caregivers to feel anxious about the hospital, but it is crucial to keep these fears in check when talking to the child. Address your concerns with a healthcare professional first, so you can approach the child with a sense of calm. Remember, if you cope well, the child is more likely to follow your lead.
Make a plan
Creating a plan can help ease anxiety for both you and the child. If possible, take a tour of the hospital to familiarise the child with the environment and the people they will encounter. Pack a "hospital bag" with items that will make them feel safe and secure, such as a favourite toy, stuffed animal, or blanket. You can also encourage them to make cards or drawings to give to their loved one in the hospital.
Keep the visit positive and flexible
Allow the child to lead during the visit. Let them decide when they want to enter the room, how close they want to be to the patient, and how long they want to stay. Reassure them that it is okay to feel a range of emotions and that crying is a healthy coping mechanism. If the person they are visiting has tubes or visible injuries, consider waiting until their condition improves before bringing the child, especially if the patient is a close family member.
Maintain routines and offer choices
Try to maintain the child's daily schedule as much as possible, including naps, meals, and play. Provide choices whenever you can, such as how they want to take their medicine or what activities they want to do. This gives them a sense of control and helps normalise the experience.
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Follow hospital guidelines and health checks
When visiting a sick child in the hospital, it is important to follow the hospital's guidelines and health checks to ensure the safety and well-being of both the child and the visitors. Here are some detailed instructions to prepare for your visit:
Check Hospital Guidelines:
Each hospital has specific guidelines for visitors, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the policies of the hospital you plan to visit. Check their website or call ahead to inquire about visiting hours, any restrictions, and the maximum number of visitors allowed at the bedside. Some hospitals, like SickKids, provide online resources outlining their family presence and patient visiting policies for different areas of the hospital. Understanding these guidelines will help you plan your visit accordingly and avoid any disruptions to the child's medical care.
Self-Screen for Symptoms:
Before your visit, it is crucial to perform a self-screening for any symptoms of illness. Hospitals, such as the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, emphasize the importance of this step to prevent the spread of infections to vulnerable patients. Check for symptoms such as a fever, cough, runny nose, or any other signs of a communicable illness. If you or anyone accompanying you exhibits any of these symptoms or has been exposed to someone with an illness, it is advisable to postpone your visit until you are symptom-free for at least 48 hours.
Comply with Health Checks at the Hospital:
Upon arriving at the hospital, expect to undergo health screenings at the entrance or welcome desks. Hospitals like the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have strict protocols and may turn away visitors with symptoms of a viral infection or those exposed to a communicable disease. These health checks are in place to protect the patients, staff, and other visitors. If you are experiencing any symptoms, respect the hospital's policies and reschedule your visit for when you are feeling better.
Follow Infection Control Policies:
Hospitals implement infection control measures to minimize the risk of spreading illnesses. Visitors may be asked to wear masks, gowns, or other personal protective equipment during their visit. Comply with these requests to reduce the introduction of germs to the child's living space and protect the health of those around you. Remember to maintain good hand hygiene by washing your hands frequently, especially before and after your visit.
Supervise and Prepare Young Visitors:
If you are bringing children to visit a sick relative, ensure they are supervised by an adult at all times. Young children and infants have developing immune systems, so assess the risks carefully before bringing them to the hospital. If you decide to bring them, prepare them for the visit by explaining what they might see, including medical equipment and the patient's physical condition. Consider showing them photographs to help reduce fear and shock. Respect the child's wishes, and do not force them to visit if they are hesitant.
By following these guidelines and health checks, you can help ensure that your visit to the sick child in the hospital is safe and positive for everyone involved. Remember to always prioritize the well-being of the child and adhere to the hospital's instructions.
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Keep the conversation light and positive
When visiting a sick child in the hospital, it is important to keep the conversation light and positive. While it is normal to want to protect children from sadness, they are often fearful of meeting new people, especially in a hospital setting. Therefore, familiar faces are welcomed as they represent security, friendship, and support.
- Smile, stay calm, and interact with the child: Your body language and tone of voice can help to put the child at ease. A warm smile and a calm presence can make a big difference in the child's comfort level.
- Keep the conversation positive: Avoid talking about the child's illness or medical condition. Instead, focus on topics that interest the child, such as school, hobbies, sports, or their favourite toys. Ask them about their friends and daily activities to take their mind off their current situation.
- Refrain from talking about the child in front of them: It is important to respect the child's privacy and autonomy. Avoid discussing their health or treatment plan in their presence as if they are not there or do not understand. Involve them in the conversation and give them a sense of agency.
- Acknowledge their illness, but focus on normalcy: While it is important to acknowledge that the child is sick, remind them that they are still capable of enjoying activities they normally would. Encourage them to play, draw, read, or participate in other age-appropriate activities. Normalize their hospital experience as much as possible.
- Be mindful of their energy levels: Sometimes, a child may be too sick to enjoy a lengthy visit. Respect their energy levels and the hospital's visiting hours. Keep the conversation brief if necessary, and let them know that you care and will check in on them regularly.
- Prepare the child in advance: If the child has siblings or friends who are planning to visit, it is important to prepare them for what they might see. Explain the hospital environment, including the presence of medical equipment, potential physical changes in the patient, and the possibility of meeting other patients. This can help reduce their anxiety and fear.
Remember, the key is to make the child feel loved, supported, and as normal as possible during their hospital stay. Keep the conversation light, positive, and focused on their interests and well-being.
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Show your support in other ways
If you are unable to visit a sick child in the hospital, there are several other ways you can show your support. Firstly, it is important to remember that hospitalized children often miss their friends, pets, toys, and daily activities. Therefore, you can offer to drive the family's other children to and from activities, or provide support with their pets, such as walking the dog or taking them to the vet. You could also offer to help with household chores, such as taking out the trash, doing yard work, or cooking meals for the family.
Another way to show your support is through virtual communication. You can set up a Skype or Facetime call with the child, or send them a letter, card, or package. Many hospitals also offer the option to send an e-card, which they will print and deliver to the child. Alternatively, you can order a gift from the hospital's online gift shop, if they have one.
If you are considering visiting a sick child in the hospital, it is important to prioritize the health and safety of the child and other patients. Do not visit if you are sick, have been sick recently, or have been exposed to someone who is ill. Many hospitals screen visitors for symptoms of communicable illnesses, and may turn away those who pose a risk to patients. It is also important to call the child's family before visiting to ensure that your presence will not interrupt important medical procedures or conversations.
When visiting a sick child, it is crucial to follow the hospital's guidelines and infection control policies. Wash your hands upon entering the room, and comply with any requests to wear a mask or gown. Refrain from bringing flowers, plants, or food items, as these may not be allowed or may pose a risk to the child. Instead, consider bringing a latex-free balloon or a gift that aligns with the child's interests, such as school supplies, sports equipment, or arts and crafts.
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Frequently asked questions
Visiting a sick child in the hospital can lift everybody's spirits, but it is important to consider the child's wishes and feelings. Children often miss their friends, pets, toys, and daily activities, so a visit from a familiar face can be a welcome distraction. However, it is important to call the child's family before you visit to avoid interrupting important medical procedures.
It is important to wash your hands upon entering the room to reduce the introduction of germs, as hospitalized children are at serious risk of contracting illnesses. Some hospitals may also require visitors to comply with infection control policies, such as wearing a mask or gown. Refrain from bringing food items or flowers, as the child may not be allowed to eat, and they may be allergic to flowers.
If you are feeling unwell or have recently been exposed to an illness, it is best to refrain from visiting to avoid putting the child at risk. Instead, you can offer to help the family in other ways, such as driving their other children to activities, cooking a meal, or taking care of their pets. You can also brighten the child's day by sending a letter, card, or package.
Children over the age of four can benefit from visiting a sick relative, as it increases their understanding and reduces feelings of separation and fear. However, it is important to consider the child's hesitation and immune system development. Very young children and infants should only visit in exceptional or compassionate situations and should be closely supervised by an adult. Adolescents should be encouraged to ask questions and seek clarification to address any misunderstandings.
Yes, it is important to check the visiting hours and guidelines of the specific hospital before planning a visit. Some hospitals may have restrictions on the number of visitors allowed at the bedside during certain hours. Additionally, visitors should refrain from taking photographs or videos of other patients or staff members without permission and should not post any media online without consent.
