What Kids Should Expect
At Culpeper Regional Hospital (CRH), we understand that when your child is ill, the whole family is affected. We want to assure you that we will do everything possible to make the experience safe and as comfortable as possible. There are some things you can do to prepare for the hospital visit and items you can bring with your child to make him or her feel more at home.
Before you come, you may wish to talk to your child about what he or she can expect when going to a hospital: the rooms, the bed, the nurses and doctors, the meals on a tray, and the tests and procedures he or she may have. Your physician may also be helpful in explaining tests or procedures to your child, and the hospital staff is available to you for explanations and descriptions. It is most important that your child be allowed to ask questions and know what to expect.
We encourage you to be truthful with your child, as we will be. We will make every effort to explain everything that happens, and we will listen to your child for clues about what he or she wants or needs to know. If it will hurt, we will tell your child about how much it should hurt, how long, why, and what we can do about pain to make it go away or hurt less.
For younger children, you may want to play hospital or doctor before coming to the hospital and/or read some books about hospitals, which are usually available in bookstores or libraries.
Be certain that you bring a list of all medications and supplements, including dosages, that your child takes, as well as a list of allergies or sensitivities. Your physician may also instruct you to bring additional information.
Your physician will provide you with any medical instructions you need to prepare your child for hospitalization. You will want to check with your physician's office several days prior to a scheduled hospital visit, if you have not received any special instructions.
You will also need to bring your Medicare, Medicaid, BCBS card, or other payment information to the Admitting Office.
Packing Tips Just For Kids
Parents/guardians: You may want to let your child help pack for his or her trip to the hospital.
Toys
Do you have a favorite stuffed animal or doll you'd like to bring? How about a game or toy you really like? You can even bring some books to read or schoolwork to do, or some family pictures if you like. At CRH, we have a special playroom just for kids! And if you like watching movies, we have lots of kids' movies for you to enjoy.
Clothes
Have you ever seen a hospital gown on a TV show? We have one just for you when you come to the hospital. You could also bring a few of your own things, such as your lucky hat or some socks and funny slippers, even a sweater, sweatshirt, or bathrobe. Just remember that your family is responsible for all your personal items.
Special Equipment
You will need to bring any special equipment you use, such as a wheelchair, braces, hearing aid, monitors, etc.
Grooming Supplies
Don't forget your toothbrush, toothpaste, brush/comb, and lotions or shampoo you especially like. We really do want you to be as comfortable as possible!
» Back to Top