Supporting your child during medical procedures

Supporting your child during medical procedures

The role of parents and caregivers

Parents and caregivers play an important role in helping children cope during medical care. To support your child, make sure you have the information you need to explain the visit. Before your child’s procedure, you will meet with members of the care team such as a nurse as well as a Child Life Specialist. During this pre-op appointment, staff are there to answer your questions and settle any concerns that you or your child may have. 

To reach a Child Life Specialist, call 514-412-4400, ext. 22570.

What to tell your child

There are different things that you can do to prepare yourself and your child leading up to the procedure. Here are some suggestions:

Infants 0 – 12 months

  • This is the age when being separated from you causes the most anxiety for your baby, so be present with them leading up to the procedure and during the procedure, if possible. Hold, comfort and talk to your baby.
  • Maintain your child’s regular schedule (feeding, sleeping, etc.) leading up to the procedure.
  • Play soft music and lullabies for your baby or sing to them. Keep brightly coloured toys inside their crib. Play the game of Peek-a-Boo, which teaches your baby that they can expect to see you again.
  • On the day of the procedure, bring familiar items from home such as toys, stuffed animals or a favourite blanket.
  • Before and after the procedure, place your baby in their crib to encourage rolling, kicking, crawling and reaching (for toys). 

Babies 1 – 3 years of age

  • Leading up to the procedure, stay with your child as much as possible. If you have to leave, tell them when you will be leaving and when you will be coming back.
  • Engage your child with questions that allow them to make choices. For example, which game would you like to play? What would you like to eat? This helps them feel listened to and loved. Allow your child to express anger, fear and sadness.
  • During some procedures, you may be allowed to read your child a story, blow bubbles or use a toy that has sounds and lights.

Toddlers 3 – 5 years of age

  • Leading up to the procedure, stay with your child as much as possible. If you need to leave, tell your child when you will be leaving and when you will be coming back. 
  • We recommend telling your child about the procedure a few hours beforehand. Explain what they might see, hear, and feel, and reassure them.
  • During some procedures, you may be allowed to read your child a story, blow bubbles or use a toy that has sounds and lights. 
  • Read books together about going to the hospital.

Children 6 – 12 years of age

  • We encourage you to tell your child about the procedure a few days in advance, explaining what they might see, hear and feel. Make sure to reassure them. Also, explain changes that may occur in their body as a result of treatments and medications.
  • If helpful, involve your child in packing their suitcase.  Encourage them to bring a few of their favourite items.  
  • If helpful, encourage them to keep in touch with close friends. You may also encourage a close friend to visit your child in the hospital. 
  • Encourage your child to do arts and crafts, games and other activities offered at the hospital.

Children 12 – 18 years of age

  • Adolescents may be concerned with their appearance. It is important to let them know how they will look after the procedure or after taking medication.
  • Legally, a child over 14 years of age can make medical decisions and request that their medical information be kept confidential. Include your teenager in discussions and decisions about treatment. Let them know that they can ask questions to you or the medical team.
  • Encourage your preteen or teen to express their feelings and be understanding when they express their need for privacy.
  • If helpful, you may encourage a close friend to visit your child in the hospital. However, make sure to ask your child first. Your preteen or teen may not want company at this time. 

Take care of yourself, too

It is very important to take care of yourself during this time.

  • Be sure to get enough food. Rest and if possible, make time to exercise.
  • While at the hospital, take breaks or go for a walk. Volunteers are available to stay with your child while you take a bit of time for yourself.
  • Talk to someone you trust about your feelings. You can also ask to speak to a social worker or a spiritual support staff member on your child’s care team.
  • Close friends and family members may also play a role in helping your family. Don’t hesitate to ask your loved ones for the help that you need. 

How to pack

Children may be allowed to wear their own clothing for a procedure rather than a hospital gown. The hospital gown is only necessary for certain tests and procedures. Put your child’s name on all items that you’re packing in their suitcase.

Please bring:

  • Pyjamas 
  • Non-skid slippers/shoes 
  • Shirts, pants, underwear
  • Pillow  
  • Toothpaste and toothbrush 
  • Shampoo, conditioner, body soap
  • Hairbrush/comb 
  • Baby wipes and diapers, if needed
  • Bathrobe
  • You can also bring your child’s favourite book, toy, stuffed animal or game.
  • Do not bring any valuables such as jewellery.

Your child may like to receive cards from relatives or friends. If mailing a card, it should have your child’s full name, care unit or floor, and room number written on it.

The hospital mailing address

1001 boul. Décarie,
Montréal, QC H4A 3J1.

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