How to prepare your child for a hospital stay?

Each child differs in his understanding to accept and adapt to the changes in the environment. The child's attachment to his parents, the way he is brought up (independent or dependent), age, health status, previous hospital experience, level of anxiety everything matters when you prepare your child for a hospital stay. It isn't that easy as we think.

When you prepare a infant or a toddler for a hospital stay, the child feels a sense of separation. He feels insecure in a new place like a hospital and gets an idea that his parents are going to leave him in the hospital forever. Also he feels that his sibling is going to play with his favorite toys etc. So he expresses the feeling of separation from their loved ones or loved things. In such cases, the parents should explain him clearly that they are going to stay with him during the hospital stay, bring his favorite toys to the hospital and also let his siblings and friends visit during visiting hours if permitted. Children do not understand much when you explain about surgery or tests but still it is the parents responsibility to explain their child in a pleasant way. Do not scare him.

If you are preparing a pre-schooler, he is concerned about different things. He doesn't understand much about the disease and need for hospital stay. If he is in the state of understanding, explain him that hospital stay is for some kind of correction and not a punishment. Never tell him you will be hospitalized if you are mischievous. Be truthful to them. Explain with pictures which gives better understanding. Start preparing him at least 3-5 days before the day of hospitalization. Explain the procedure in simple terms and the need for it.

In case of a schooler, he is big enough to understand what is going on in him and around him. He'll be concerned about missing school and friends. Some might feel ashamed of telling their friends about the problem they have and the reason for hospitalization. Talk to your child and make it clear that diseases and hospitalization are nothing to be ashamed of. Consult a psychologist if needed. Send leave letters to school ahead of time, also talk to the concerned teachers about your child's problem. Explain your child little more deeply about the need of hospital stay and the procedures he has to undergo. A better explanation gives a better co-operation.

If your child is an adolescent, he will be very understanding and will know the need for hospitalization. But still he'll be very anxious about the process. A good reassuring explanation will relieve his fear. Encourage him to ask questions and clear his doubts with you or a doctor. Help him to feel at ease.

Other general tips include:

1. Explaining and preparing the child well ahead of time before hospitalization which ensures enough time is given to them to accept the change.

2. Start packing things and get ready for hospitalization a day earlier with the child. Ask him to take his favorite toys, books or CDs for you to pack.

3. Spend a quiet time with him and talk about the hospital stay in a soft tone. It is better to know what is about to happen in advance.

4. Ask them what they feel about the particular procedure and hospitalization, then you explain the rest for him.

5. Teach them relaxation techniques like deep breathing and diversion.

6. Give him a gentle hug or back rub when is needed.

These are simple ways to prepare your child for a hospital stay. If you have made any promises, make sure you do it. Visit your child with friends and family, and make the stay enjoyable.