“I thought it was going to be a bit boring in hospital but I could watch DVD’s and TV and do cool stuff with the play specialists. After my operation I had to stay in bed for a few days but when I was allowed out I went in to the play room met other children.  My mum and sister came to see me everyday and I was able to use the phone and email on my TV to stay in touch with my friends.”

Samantha, 12

What is it like being in Hospital?

If you have to go into hospital you might be worried about having to stay away from home. Try not to worry and remember that…

• All the staff in the hospital are friendly; they will try to explain everything to you and make you feel comfortable during your stay.
• An adult member of your family can stay with you if that’s what you want. They can sleep on a fold up bed.
• You can bring in some of your own things from home – like pyjamas, toothbrush, slippers, favourite toys and books. It’s best not to bring in valuable things that could get lost or stolen.
• There’s loads to do so you shouldn’t be bored!! Play specialists will play with you, give you toys, books to read or let you do drawing, painting or other craft things. There is a television by each bed for you to watch.
• If you are in hospital for more than five days and are well enough, you will have to go to the schoolroom. This is very near to the ward and the teaching staff will contact your school and ask them to send in some work for you.

Who might you meet in hospital?

During your stay in hospital you’ll see lots of different people…

Consultant

This is a special kind of doctor. They know a lot about one type of illness or treatment.

Doctor

This person’s job is to try and make you better if you are not well. They train to be a doctor for a long time.

Children’s nurse

This is a specially trained nurse who looks after poorly children. You will be told the name of the nurse looking after you.

Clinical support worker/auxiliary nurse

This is a person who works with the nurses that helps to care for you with the children’s nurses and doctors.

Community nurse

This is a special kind of nurse who will take care of you if you need help when you leave the hospital. He or she will visit you at home or school.

Play specialist

He or she will help you to enjoy your stay in hospital by playing with you. They will try to explain to you what will happen if you are having any tests or treatments. They will help you to understand what will happen to you.

Therapists

These are people who will help you exercise, move, breathe, get you a wheelchair, if need be during your stay in hospital.

Pharmacist

He or she will make sure that you get the right medicines.

Ward domestics/caterers/housekeepers

These people make sure the wards are clean, have the right equipment and that you receive your meals and drinks.

Social worker

They will help you and your parents/carers in lots of different ways and will be there to talk to you.

Specialist nurse

These are nurses who look after children with certain conditions i.e. asthma or diabetes.