How to deal with the worry when your child goes to hospital
As a parent, you do all you can to keep your child safe and healthy. You give them a healthy diet, you teach them about safety so they make wise decisions when you’re not around to help, and you protect them from harm whenever you possibly can.
But as hard as you try, it’s just not possible to shield them from everything. And there may come a time where you are rushing your child to the hospital.
It doesn’t matter what circumstances have led you to the hospital, if your child is sick or injured and needs immediate medical care, you will also be dealing with your own stress, worry, and confusion.
So, how do you cope with those feelings while also caring for your child? Here is some practical advice to help you stay calm and feel more in control.
Focus on getting information
While it’s impossible not to worry and stress, you can focus on redirecting that energy into productive action and gather as much information as possible about your child’s health.
This means talking to the doctor, asking lots of questions, and making sure you aren’t confused by terminology, the treatment plan, prognosis, and any other information. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification and further explanation if you need it.
Keep a calm and positive attitude for your child
Remember, your child will be looking to you for cues and information, so you need to exude calmness and positivity – even if you don’t feel it.
This can be done through chatting with your child, trying to lift their spirits, keeping their mind off the situation, and just keeping things light. Embracing this calm and positive attitude can also have a calming effect on you.
Ask for help at home
If your child needs an extended stay in the hospital, don’t be afraid to ask for help at home. You need to be able to stay with them, be present, and not worrying about about whether the chores are getting done, the meals are being made, the dog is being fed.
If you’re in a relationship, you can always take turns with the home duties and being there with your child. If you don’t have a significant other, ask a family member or friend to help out.
Look to family and close friends for support
This is also the time to look to your family and close friends for support. Share your worries and frustrations with them, and allow yourself that time to vent. You want to make sure that whenever you’re at your child’s bed, you are your most focused and strong self.
What if the situation becomes more serious?
Obviously the hope is that your child is treated quickly, a treatment plan is put in place, and that they are on the mend and ready to go home soon.
However, that’s not always the case, and sometimes things can become more serious. Unfortunately, in some cases, things such as medical malpractice can even occur, which jeopardizes the health, safety, and path to recovery for your child.
if this happens, the first step is always going to be to get your child the immediate medical attention and care they need. But you would also be wise to hire a lawyer with experience in medical malpractice. Take for example Trapani Law Firm, which can provide a Reading medical malpractice attorney.
An attorney will be able to look out for the rights of your child and deal with all the paperwork, compensation issues, and fighting so that you can focus on your child.
Staying strong for your child
Whatever reason your child is in hospital for, and however long they need to stay there, we hope of these tips will help you to cope better with your worry and stress.
Photo by Aditya Romansa
