What to Expect

Inpatient Stay

Your child's transplant surgery will include an inpatient stay in the hospital, and parents are encouraged to stay with their children while they are hospitalized.

Hotels are located nearby for other family members.  Our Social Services department offers a reservation service known as "Suite Dreams" to help families with medical needs receive discounted rates on local hotels.  For Suite Dream assistance, call 1-800-955-ROOM.  The Social Services department can also make referrals to the Ronald McDonald House for families of patients.

Specific items to bring during your inpatient stay should be discussed with your transplant coordinator prior to admission.  Examples of items include:

• Your child's robe and slippers and favorite stuffed animal or toy (A favorite stuffed toy can serve as a "security blanket" and accompany your child into surgery, the recovery room or the intensive care unit)
• ​Extra clothing for you and your child
• ​All medicines taken by your child (give to your nurse when checking in)
• Insurance information and other important documents, including your child's immunization record
• Any medications or other items parents will need while away from home

Suggestions for Parents

Child life specialists at Children's Health can help you prepare your child for their stay.

Ideas to Consider

• If children are old enough to understand, tell them in advance about the upcoming hospital stay. Older children can be told about their medical condition, the procedures required and other details about hospitalization earlier than younger children. A younger child generally should not be told until a few days before the hospitalization.
• Try to answer your child's questions about the hospital honestly. You may want to try to explain what the child can expect while at the hospital.
• Reassure your child that you or another family member will be nearby while your child is in the hospital to make sure he or she is all right.
• Pack some special items from home. Familiar objects will help your child feel more comfortable in a strange place. A favorite toy can serve as a security blanket and can accompany your child into surgery, the recovery room or to the intensive care unit.
• Siblings may find a child's hospitalization almost as stressful as the patient does. The best way to alleviate their fears is to bring them with you on a visit to the hospital. Probe for and correct any misconceptions your children may have about a brother's or sister's illness or about hospital procedures. After the hospitalization is over, set aside time for communication and activities with each child individually.

Remember, our child life staff is here to help. If you need more information or would like to speak with the child life specialist dedicated to transplantation, please contact 214-456-8600.