There are a variety of reasons a relatively healthy child will need to visit hospital at some stage. Handled correctly, the experience can be a positive one.
We asked Catherine Garland, Senior Play Specialist at The National Children’s Hospital, Tallaght for some advice on the little things you can do to prepare children for a hospital appointment… and the key things to avoid.
Outpatients Appointment
“As a parent, be informed as to the length and nature of the visit. In many cases a number of patients are called for clinics at the same time so be prepared that you may not be seen at the specific time on your appointment schedule. Once you, as an adult, are in the mind-set that you may have to wait, then you may be less likely to pass on impatience and stress to your child. At The National Children’s Hospital, Tallaght an arts programme runs at various times and is designed to help pass the waiting time by encouraging children to ‘Create While You Wait’. Encourage your child to engage in activities; ask them to pick out as many fish as they can in the fish tank or count the bears illustrated on the walls. Prepare your child in advance for a physical exam. Reassure them that you will be with them throughout the visit and can stay for all examinations. Doctors and nurses kits can be great ways for this; the child can examine their dolls and teddies and enjoy some role playing activity.
Blood Test
Adults often pass on their anxieties to their children. Be relaxed and calm when explaining the procedure. Let your child know that the nurse will place a blue bracelet on their arm, just above their elbow. They will then spray some freezing magic spray to numb the area and there will be a tiny pinch. The drawing of blood should only take 30 seconds, so you can even count it down together. Try to avoid using the word ‘needle’ with your child, dependent on their age. The nurses will refer to the cannula as the ‘butterfly’ they see. If you think your child is really fearful, there is an extra special “magic” cream that can be used, but it can take up to 40 minutes to be effective. Bring children in for blood tests in warm clothing so that veins can be found easier, thus reducing the duration of the procedure. If possible ensure children, particularly babies, are well hydrated.
Surgical Day Procedures
Explain to your child in a simplified and relaxed manner that they will be coming into the hospital for a number of hours. Don’t explain too far in advance of the visit, or to talk excessively about it with your child as this may build the sense of occasion and heighten anxiety around it. If you are discussing the visit with other adults, be mindful of the words you use and how you speak about any procedure around little ears. Be aware of the fasting stipulations outlined and stick to them.
On the night before the visit, allow the child to prepare and pack their own bag. Their favourite pyjamas, teddy and blanket can all be included. Please don’t tell your child they are going on their holidays as this may confuse them and lead to more distress on the day. As a parent or guardian, you will be called before your child wakes up so you can reassure them that you will be there when they wake up.
