Common Questions
What Should I Ask the Nurse?
Since the nurse is at the bedside for an extended period of time, they may be the best person to comment on your child’s comfort and response to certain therapies. Here are some questions that should be generally asked of the nurse:
- Who are the doctors caring for my child?
- Which doctor is in charge?
- Is there anything in the treatment plan for the day that maybe uncomfortable or painful?
- If so, have medications been ordered to prevent this?
- If you are not in the room, how do I call for help?
- How quickly should I expect someone to respond to my call?
- What should I do if the equipment alarms?
- How does my child go to the bathroom?
- Can you explain to me what the doctor said?
- Will you explain what all the lines, tubes, and equipment are and what they do?
- What can I do to help?
- If I am not in the hospital and something happens, how will you get in touch with me?
- What happens if something urgently happens and I am not available?
What Should I Ask the Doctor?
When you do talk to the doctor, it is sometimes difficult to remember all your questions. Writing down your questions and concerns as they arise can be helpful. Here are some questions you may want to ask your child’s doctor:
- What is wrong with my child?
- Can it be cured?
- How long will this condition affect them?
- Are there long-term side effects with this condition?
- What is the treatment plan?
- When do you usually see improvement?
- What signs will you be watching for as a response to the therapy?
- What are the risks of the therapy and/or medications?
- Is my child in any pain?
- What is being done to ease my child’s pain and fear?
- How is nutrition provided?
- Is my child receiving the medications they were on at home?
How Often Should I Get Information?
Our doctors have daily rounds. Once they are done the doctors will be free to update you on the condition of your child and any changes made to the treatment plan. If an acute change or event occurs, you may need to speak with the doctor more frequently. Your child’s bedside nurse is also very helpful in keeping you updated on any events of the day and clarifying information for you.
Should I Bring Anything From Home?
Familiar things are often comforting; however, you should check with the nurse before brining anything into the department. Photographs, cards, a favorite toy, stuffed animal, blanket maybe helpful. Having a small portable radio or tape player to play their favorite music can also be comforting.
