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A hospital stay can be a scary and difficult process. If a hospital stay is in your future, there are a few tips can help; some particularly important for children.

1. Belongings from home

Photos, toys, reading materials or any other treasured items can be remarkably comforting. So are comfy pjs, robe and even your favorite pillow! (Remember there will be many times when you’re not in your room so don’t keep any valuables in your room)

2. Get to know the people

Get acquainted with the doctors, nurses and even other patients with whom you have contact.

3. If possible, do a little exploring

For those who are allowed or even encouraged to walk and move around, exploring the hospital can offer a variety of benefits.

4. Know your care thoroughly

To reduce the feeling of having no control, get to know the care and treatment thoroughly. Plus an aware patient can help prevent mistakes.

5. Have a family member or friend be your advocate. They should understand your preferences for care and know if you have an advanced directive or other legal document stating your wishes.

6. Communicate with friends and relatives

Visitors can make the stay easier so make sure they know you appreciate their visits. But also try to stay connected with those who cannot visit.

7. Communicate information about your health as accurately and concisely as possible. Write down questions and important information to discuss with your physician. Knowledge is not only power, it can also be quite comforting at times like this.

A change in routine paired with the heightened emotional state most patients experience can make even a fairly routine hospital stay disorienting. Take these few simple steps to alleviate as much stress as possible and you may even recover a little sooner!

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