Extended Hospitalizations
Hi, this is Murney. In our book, I talk about what it is like navigating extended hospital stays – dealing with the ambulance, emergency department and admission process. I have a lot of experience with extended stays for my son, Atle.
Below is a list of items that I find helpful to pack. I generally pack a bag as soon as my child spikes a fever or begins acting sick instead of waiting until the last minute when I am about to take him in. I am always happy to unpack it later if it is not needed:
- Tennis shoes (or slippers if you are wearing your tennis shoes).
- Shorts and t-shirt to sleep in (remember people will be coming into your room all night long).
- Phone and computer chargers (if you forget, sometimes the nurses have a stash of them that have been left behind by other patients).
- A good book.
- A small sharp knife for cutting up fruit
- Stretchy pants.
- Underwear and socks (at least three days worth).
- Toothbrush, paste & comb
- Notepad and pen.
- Insulated water bottle or cup.
- Your favourite pillow.
- A favourite stuffed animal (for your child, silly).
- Some snack bars or cheese and crackers.
- Lotion (for all that hand washing).
- Shampoo and conditioner (you do not want that off-brand stuff).
- Sweater or hoodie.
- Your own medications.
I wish you and your child the best health possible to avoid lengthy hospital stays. I know how challenging it can be. I hope this section has been helpful and one that you will not need to refer to often!
Please join us on our social media platforms to connect with other parents.
— Murney, excerpt from Raising the Goddess of Spring
Want to learn more? We talk in depth about this topic in Raising the Goddess of Spring: A guide for parents raising children with rare chromosome disorders.
