Coping with a new experience is easier when you are prepared. Here are a few tips to help you prepare your child for a visit or stay at the Janeway:

• Explain to your child that in order to get well, a hospital visit or stay is necessary.
• Tell your child that the people he will meet are there to give him the best of care.
• Tell your child the number of days he is likely to be away from home.
  Listen to any fears your child may have.
• Always be honest with your child. If you don’t know how to answer his questions, write them down together so that you can ask the nurse or doctor at the hospital.
• Read books about going to the hospital with your child. Ask your local librarian for good books. We recommend…

First Look at the Hospital, by Daphne Butler
Why am I Going to the Hospital, by Claire Cilotta

Preparing as a parent or caregiver

Having a child who is ill is a major stressor for parents and families. With a planned admission, you have the opportunity to avoid some of that stress by taking the time to get yourself organized and prepared.  If you will be traveling to St. John’s for care, prepare for accommodations in advance. Families are encouraged to stay together as much as possible, and daycare for siblings can be arranged.  

• Read the information provided to you about your child’s illness or procedure.
• Write down any questions that you or your child have.
• Your child will probably want you to stay with her as much as possible. Wear comfortable clothing and bring your own personal care items like soap, a toothbrush and a change of clothes. 
• When you have to leave the building, let your child know where you are going and when you will return. 
• If you wish to stay overnight with your child, please talk with the nurse on your child’s unit. Every effort will be made to make your night comfortable. Be sure to make arrangements for going home before you arrive at the hospital.
• If you will need assistance at home, please discuss this with your child’s nurse as soon as possible.

Accommodations

Accommodations for parents and children are available at the Janeway Hostel located adjacent to the Health Sciences Centre. This 30-unit hostel provides housing for patients at the Janeway or for families whose child has outpatient clinic appointments.

Each room is a self-contained housekeeping unit equipped with a small refrigerator, counter-top range, color television and telephone. Each unit has a double and single bed, full bath, bed linens, towels, dishes and pots and pans.

Because of the uncertainty of check-out time of families staying at the hostel and the number of rooms available on a daily basis, reservations are accepted but not confirmed. Please call 709-777-6831.

Three people are permitted to stay in one room. Room rates are $50.00 per night. This rate is subject to change. Please call ahead. You can purchase food at the hospital cafeteria and gift shop. Coin operated washers and dryers are also available.

Documents you will need:

• MCP Card is essential
• Hospital Card (This card will be given to you in admitting if you do not have one)
• Health Insurance Card (if applicable)
• Doctor’s referrals or test results (if applicable)
• Prescribed medications in original pharmacy containers
• Non-Canadians must bring their insurance information, claim forms and/or authorization numbers, or ANNEX documents

What to bring with you

As you prepare for a short, regular or lengthy visit to the hospital, please consider the following items:

• A notepad to write down the answers that you will need to remember. 
• Any health reports, test results, school reports, referral letters or other documentation you have been asked to bring.
• Your child’s favorite comfort toy as well as activities to keep him or her busy. Sometimes it is necessary to wait at a clinic or to see a doctor. While this is an unfortunate circumstance, preparation can make the wait easier on you both!

If your child will be staying overnight, please label and bring personal items including: eyeglasses; pajamas, slippers, a robe, underwear and a change of clothing; Soap, a toothbrush, toothpaste, combs or brushes, and shampoo; A favorite toy, book or security blanket will help to make your child’s separation from home much easier.

What to leave at home

• Large amounts of cash, jewelry or other personal items of value
• Latex balloons
• Scented products

The hospital does not accept responsibility for any lost or stolen valuables.

Personal Information

When you are admitted to hospital, or when you come in for tests or procedures, it is important that you update your personal information with the Admitting\Registration Clerk.  If any of the following has changed, please inform the Clerk:

• Name
• Martial Status
• Address
• Next of Kin
• Work Place
• Phone Numbers
• Family Physician
• Religion
• Other Pertinent Information

Allergic Reactions can be avoided during your stay if the hospital staff is aware of any allergies you have.  If you have any allergies, you must inform your nurse as soon as you are admitted.

Admission

When you arrive at the hospital, proceed to the Admitting Department on the main floor, Health Sciences Centre. Inform the clerk that your child is being admitted and make sure you present the child’s MCP card. If you don’t have a hospital card, one will be given to you will be asked to wait for an admitting clerk to process your admission. Please do not go to the floor where your child will receive care unless directed to do so in advance.