$Unique_ID{BRK01851} $Pretitle{} $Title{Preparing a Child for a Hospital Stay} $Subject{childhood hospital hospitals admission hospitalization youngsters children child} $Volume{} $Log{} Copyright (c) 1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc. A Resource About Preparing a Child for a Hospital Stay ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Even adults facing an admission to the hospital find themselves fighting back the normal apprehensions and anxieties that such a stay provokes. Think then about the youngsters who must experience even greater fears of the unknown. Much can be done to alleviate some of the fear and reduce the anxiety by preparing a child in advance, and the results are more than worth the effort. And here's how you can start the preparation. Write for the new brochure "What will they do to me in the hospital?" prepared by the National Mental Health Association. It can provide you with guidelines and suggestions that help you plan in advance. By asking the proper questions, and discussing the details with your child, you make the hospitalization both easier and less frightening. The brochure actually provides you with both the subjects to discuss and the proper approach to take, in discussing the subject with your child. You can get your copy by writing to "What will they do to me?", National Mental Health Association, 1021 Prince Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. If you are facing this situation, you will be most grateful for the help the publication provides. ---------------- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.