Child

On Admission to the Children's Ward

  • Information to bring with you.

    • Home address and contact numbers
    • Details of child’s GP
    • Details of health visitor
    • Previous infections, hospital admissions, operations
    • Any special dietary needs

    Please note:
    • Smoking or vaping is not allowed in the hospital or hospital grounds.
    • Please do not bring alcohol in to the hospital.

  • During your child’s admission

    Their blood pressure, pulse, respiration rate, temperature and height and weight will be recorded by the nurse.

    The ward doctor will ask you a few questions regarding their past and present health, any medicines they may be taking and also perform a quick examination e.g listen to their heart.

  • Routines

    There is very little ward routine and you will be encouraged to follow your home routine as much as possible. The older children spend much of their time playing and doing activities, organised by our play specialist / teachers on the ward.

    We hope you will be able to continue with the general care of your child, such as washing and feeding, but the staff are there to help and support you. You will not be expected to do anything you do not feel able to, and staff will be happy to give advice if there is anything you aren’t sure about.

    Catering services for children

    The catering department will be providing meals for your child whilst they are here. They provide a wide range of services, which include the provision of special diets and a multicultural menu. You will be asked to choose for your child and the dietician is available if you need to discuss special needs.

  • Kevin makes friends in hospital – with Emma from Ward 51

  • Simple distraction and coping techniques

    Games and exercises which encourage controlled breathing
    Blowing bubbles, balloons, and party blowers, blowing feathers or an imaginary balloon.
    Books
    Pop up books, “Where’s Wally” books, puzzle books, hospital books
    Games and Puzzles
    Hand held American football or tank game (battery operated), small puzzles, I spy games
    Music
    Relaxation tapes, singing, musical toys and instruments
    Sensory Experiences
    Koosh balls, pom poms, stress ball, light wand, kaleidoscope, cuddly toys Messy substances –  cornflower, playdough, slime jelly
    Mental Aptitude
    Logical thinking games, mental maths games (counting, multiplication), jokes, positive interaction/conversation
    Imaginary and Make Believe Play
    Puppets, favourite soft toy, therapeutic dolls, imaginary journeys

    Please do not hesitate to ask Emma or Gemma (Play Team), if you would like any more information or if you feel your child may need some distraction during any treatments or procedures.

  • Customs and beliefs

    The hospital has a chaplaincy and representatives of most faiths are available on request. If you have any particular wishes regarding your religion or faith, please discuss this with your nurse.