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Paediatrics
Welcome
to the Paediatrics Unit at Headwaters Health Care Centre. We are guided by
a philosophy of Family Centred Care, which recognizes the vital role of
families on the health care team.
What
to Bring
Please
bring pajamas, a robe, non-slip shoes or slippers, a toothbrush and
toothpaste, shampoo, a brush or comb, soap and any other personal items,
like a favourite toy or blanket your child may need. For infants please
remember diapering supplies and baby bottles.
For
safety reasons, please do not bring small toys that can be swallowed, toys
that make sparks (friction toys), plug-in electrical equipment or latex
balloons. Some patients, visitors or staff may have an allergy/sensitivity
to latex. Latex balloons can also create a safety risk, should a piece
accidentally be inhaled. Foil balloons are acceptable and are available in
the Gift Shop in the main lobby.
Helping
to Care for Your Child
One
support person is encouraged to stay with your child when awake to
participate in their care. You may perform regular parenting routines such
as feeding, bathing and changing.
We
encourage a “quiet time” from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Children are
encouraged to rest and parents are welcome to rest with them. If you leave
the hospital at any time, please ensure staff have a phone number where you
can be reached.
Staying
Overnight
One
parent is welcome to spend the night, however, we ask that TV and lights
be turned off at a reasonable hour to encourage as much rest as possible
for the children. A chair that converts to a cot is provided in each room.
Visitors
Visiting
is limited to two persons at a time. We welcome young visitors under the
age of 10, but request that a parent accompany them. Siblings and friends
are encouraged to visit in the lounge to reduce the chances of
cross-infection and overcrowding in the unit.
Infection
Control
For
the protection of your child, please do not visit if you have a cough,
flu-like symptoms or any other illness that can be easily spread.
Children’s
diseases are often contagious. You may be asked to stay in your child’s
assigned room if their condition warrants, and not walk in hallways with
them. We ask that parents only care for their own child, in order to
prevent cross-infection.
Paediatrics
Playroom
A
paediatrics playroom, with a large selection of toys, movies and video
games, is available to make sure your child has a positive hospital
experience. Please inquire at the paediatrics nursing station before using
the playroom. Children who do not have an infectious disease may use the
playroom under a parent’s supervision. Toys that are taken to the
bedside should not be returned to the playroom until they have been
thoroughly cleaned.
Discharge
Your
health care team will determine when your child is ready to go home. You
will be given specific instructions on the care of your child at home. You
may wish to fill any prescriptions at a local drugstore prior to
discharge. There is a pharmacy located in the medical clinic [140 Rolling
Hills Drive] on hospital property.
Only
parents or persons having legal custody may take a child home. All
children must be accompanied from the Paediatrics Unit upon discharge.
The
law requires babies and young children who are traveling in a car be in an
approved safety car seat.
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