As paed nurses, we understand – when your little one is in hospital (whether as the result of an emergency or a planned visit) it is easy to get caught up in it all. You might second-guess yourself, feel a little overwhelmed, or just plain confused about what questions you could be asking.
We want to preface this with an important point – although these suggestions can help you to feel supported and empowered, our ultimate piece of advice? If there is something you are unsure of at any point, don’t be afraid to SPEAK UP and ask ‘WHY’! For example – say your little one has a cannula in, and a nurse comes to remove it or change the bag – you can ask why.
We have compiled a list of ideas for different questions you can ask your child’s treating team to help you feel informed, educated, and engaged. Note – The relevance of these questions will vary depending on your situation.
General Information:
What is my child’s diagnosis, can you explain it in simple terms?
What are the goals of the treatment plan for my child?
Are my child’s symptoms/response to treatment normal?
Treatment Plan:
Can you walk me through the proposed treatment plan for my child, and why this is the plan?
Are there any alternative treatments or options we should consider?
Medications:
What medications is my child currently taking, and what are their purposes?
Are there potential side effects or interactions I should be aware of?
Procedures and Tests:
Can you explain any upcoming procedures or tests that are planned for my child?
What are the potential risks, benefits, and alternatives?
Daily Care:
What can I do to help care for my child daily?
Are there specific activities or exercises that can benefit my child or that we should avoid?
Monitoring and Progress:
How will you monitor my child’s progress during their stay?
What signs or symptoms should I be watching out for at home?
Involvement in Decision-Making:
How can I actively participate in decisions regarding my child’s care?
Can I request a family meeting to discuss my child’s treatment plan and progress?
Communication Channels:
What is the best way to communicate with the healthcare team? Are there specific times when I can expect updates?
Who should I contact if I have urgent concerns or questions?
Rehabilitation and Follow-Up:
What rehabilitation services may be needed for my child, and what is the long-term plan?
What follow-up appointments or tests are necessary after discharge?
Preparing for Discharge:
What steps should we take to prepare for our child’s return home, what can we expect?
Are there any specific instructions or precautions we need to follow?
Support Services:
Are there support services, such as social workers or child life specialists, available to assist us during our time here?
Can you provide information on support groups or resources for parents with children in similar situations?
TIP: Take notes! Whether you are a pen-to-paper person, phone notes, or voice memos – take note of questions or important information you want to remember. It can be overwhelming and easy to forget things – this can help.
Know how to escalate your situation if you feel as though your voice is not being heard, and you are concerned. Check out our post about Ryan’s rule and how to advocate by state.
And of course, don’t forget to book your baby + child CPR & First Aid Class – so that you know how to respond in an emergency.
