MeritCare Children's Hospital
Change text size
Preparing Your Child for the Doctor or Hospitalization
Taking your child to the clinic, emergency room or in for hospitalization can be a stressful time for both of you. Help your child understand what will happen before you come to see us. It will reduce everyone's stress and make the whole trip a lot better.
The Clinic & ER
The Clinic and the Emergency Room are busy places, so you'll probably find yourself waiting for your doctor. A
Clinic Survival Kit can be a great tool for you're waiting to see the doctor...and it can made from things you already have in your house:
- Books: Books that talk about a doctor visit or a hospital stay will be really helpful. They can help your child understand what to expect and why a procedure needs to be done.
- Glitter wands, bubbles, etc.: Exciting toys like bubbles will draw your child's attention away from "painful" procedures such as shots, blood tests, and stitches.
- Stuffed animals or special dolls: Your child's favorite doll will bring comfort, allow the doctor to demonstrate what he's planning to do and why, and give your child someone to "care for" at the doctor's office.
- Tablet, pen, crayons, pocket-size games: These are all good tools to help pass the time while you're waiting.
The Hospital
If your child is going to the hospital, it's important that you tell them why and what is will probably happen while they're there.
When to Prepare Your Child
- Children two to three years old should be told two to three days before admission.
- Children four to seven years old should be told four to seven days before their admission.
- Older children should be told a few weeks ahead of time and also participate in scheduling the hospitalization.
How to Prepare Your Child
- Find out how much your child understands about his or her physical problem. Make sure they really understand what's wrong. Be sure to clear up any misunderstandings.
- Assure your child that no one is to blame for the their physical problem or their hospital stay.
- Encourage your child to ask questions and ask simple questions back to make sure you're understood. Gear your explanations to the child's level of understanding.
- Talk about positive aspects of going to the hospital: treats, visitors, and the stories they can tell their friends.
Remember
- Some children are afraid their parents may leave them at the hospital. Always let your child know when you are leaving and when you'll return. Don't sneak out.
- Tell your child it is alright to cry. Crying is a healthy release of anger, fear, and pain. If something hurts, it is alright to cry!
- Above all, be honest with your child. You child needs to trust you. If you know something will hurt, say so, otherwise your child will feel deceived.
- Take advantage of the time you are waiting to see your child's doctor; have special one-to-one time with your child. Play games, read stories, discuss fears and questions your child may have.
Same-Day Surgery
- Make sure all your questions and concerns are answered by your child's doctor or nurse so you feel comfortable.
- Talk openly and honestly with your child about what will happen and whether things will hurt. Listen to your child's questions and talk about them. If you do not know the answer to the question, say you will find out. After you find out, tell the child the answer.
- If you child wishes, help him or her play "hospital" to express feelings and to understand what will happen.
- Help your child pack some special things to take with them. To the hospital: photographs, books, toys, clothes, or a special blanket. To Same Day Surgery: a special toy or blanket, an extra pair of underclothes.
- Read books with your child about the hospital or about having an operation.