Your Child in the Hospital: A Practical Guide for Parents by Nancy Keene and Rachel Prentice. Epiphany library section 8 L: Life Skills, Special Needs. This book helps parents prepare their children for a trip to the hospital, whether it is for outpatient surgery or an extended stay. It covers essential information such as preparing your child, what to take along (include your child’s blankie or favorite stuffed toy), forging alliances with your child’s doctor and the hospital staff, making use of all the hospital’s staff and facilities, awareness of common hospital procedures such as taking blood or x-rays, preparing for surgery, pain management, the effect of a hospital stay on feelings, behavior and the family, and the basics about hospital records, billing, insurance, and financing. There is even a chapter on what friends and family should say to children facing procedures and what NOT to say. That’s very helpful so you don’t sound like un unfeeling clod!
I always remember Mr. Rogers telling parents to prepare their children before a hospital visit – tell the child in an age-appropriate way what the child will experience and why, and to help the child understand that cooperation is essential to a good result and quicker release from the hospital. What they don’t know and are afraid to ask about is a lot more scary than being armed with a little bit of useful information and hope. Above all, help your child understand that the reason they are there is to get better, and that you will be with them every step of the way. They can even take their favorite stuffed toy into surgery! This is a very helpful book and a great addition to our many parenting books. ( )