Preparing Your Child for a Hospital Stay

19 items · Health · Medium difficulty · 30 min

Practical steps to prepare your child and family for a hospital stay.

• Gather insurance card, NHS details, and child's ID

  Bring NHS number, insurance/medical card, and child's ID.

• Prepare a current medication list

  Include dosages, schedules, inhalers, and how meds are given.

• List allergies and past reactions

  Note medication, food, and latex allergies with reactions.

• Pack child's overnight bag

  Include 2 outfits, pajamas, underwear, and spare socks.

• Include child's favorite blanket or small pillow
• Pack toiletries and care items

  Toothbrush, wipes, hairbrush, nappies or pull-ups if needed.

• Pack comfort and distraction items

  Favorite toy, books, tablet with charger, and headphones.

• Download entertainment and offline apps

  Save movies, shows, and games to avoid streaming issues.

• Explain the stay using age-appropriate language

  Use simple, honest words; reassure about pain and separation.

• Use role-play or visuals to show procedures

  Use dolls, drawings, or storybooks to show what will happen.

• Write a list of questions for the medical team

  Ask about diagnosis, tests, pain control, and expected length of stay.

• Organize medical records and consent forms

  Bring referral letters, prior test results, and any signed consents.

• Inform school and arrange homework support

  Send absence notice and request missed work or extensions.

• Arrange sibling and pet care plans

  Confirm caregivers, pick-up plans, and an emergency backup.

• Designate a primary contact and share with staff

  Give the hospital one main phone number for updates.

• Pack a parent essentials bag

  Phone charger, wallet, snacks, water, medications, and change of clothes.

• Confirm transport route, parking, and arrival time

  Check hospital entrance, parking rules, and where to report on arrival.

• Bring hand sanitizer, masks, and extra wipes

  Follow hospital infection rules and keep items accessible.

• Check visiting hours and overnight stay policies

  Confirm whether partners or siblings can stay or visit and any restrictions.

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