As a family affected by childhood liver disease, it is likely that at some stage you will have a hospital stay. If you haven’t experienced it before, preparing can be daunting. Our community have shared their top tips on what to remember to take with you for a stay in hospital.
Home Comforts
A dressing gown and pyjamas are a must, along with ear plugs to ensure a good night’s sleep. Taking your child’s own pillow and blanket helps the bed to smell and feel familiar for them, as can a few of their favourite toys. Having a pair of slippers to use for the ward is useful, so you don’t have to take your shoes on and off constantly when going to the toilet or to fetch a cup of tea.
Essentials
Pack a range of comfy clothes which you can layer, as the temperature on the ward can sometimes vary. Spare underwear can easily be forgotten when you’re packing in a rush!
A phone charger is a must, along with a book or tablet to keep you entertained while your child sleeps. It is also very useful to take hand moisturiser, this is to help with the dry skin caused by constant washing and hand sanitizers.
Taking all your child’s medication with you means that its all to hand if you need it or if the doctors have any specific questions regarding the medication.
Food and Drink
Plenty of cereal bars, fruit and other snacks are useful to have to hand. Taking a bottle warmer makes night time feeds easier. It is also essential to have plenty of coins for the vending machine. It is the worst feeling when you are peckish in the middle of the night and have no way of getting any change.
Entertainment
The days can feel very long when you’re in hospital. So, a good book (or two!), a laptop to watch programme’s on and to keep in touch with the outside world can be your little escape from the sounds and (at times) chaos of the ward.
If you have any more tips for what to pack and would like to share them with us, please email families@childliverdisease.org and help other young people and families affected by childhood liver disease.
