Hospital tour gives children behind the scenes look before surgery
6 Feb 2017
6 February 2017
Paediatric Ward Nurse Manager Karen Robertson said the tours were designed to give children and their parents a chance to visit the hospital, the patient rooms, meet staff and ask any questions before surgery.
“Research shows that familiarising the child and their family with their surroundings and explaining what will happen to them, reduces their stress and encourages a good recovery,” Karen said.
“At the end of the tour children receive a surgical doll donated by the Country Women's Association, theatre hat and mask to play with and further familiarise themselves with their upcoming surgery.”
The tours include a ward orientation highlighting the playroom, kitchens, patient rooms and parent beds, introduction to theatres and equipment, and information such as visiting and meal times.
“We provide family-centred care and have a fantastic team of doctors, nurses and allied health practitioners who have a wealth of paediatric knowledge and skills to care for children,” Karen said.
“We encourage a parent to stay with their child by offering free meals and a bed for the parent. To make their hospital stay more comfortable, we also invite children to bring familiar toys with them.”
St John of God Midland Public and Private offers a range of surgical care for children including ear, nose and throat surgery, general surgery and endoscopies.
Emergency care is also offered in the dedicated paediatric area within the Emergency Department.
“We provide 24-hour care for all medical cases, including common childhood conditions such as asthma, bronchiolitis, pneumonia, gastroenteritis, sepsis, feeding problems, appendicitis and constipation,” Karen said.
Did you know?
- Our Children’s Ward features 12 beds and provides care for children from birth to 17 years of age.
- We have a dedicated playroom and areas to relax for children of all ages.
- Each Children’s Ward room has a fold out bed for parents to stay with their child.
- We work closely with Princess Margaret Hospital to provide specialised care.