Information for inpatients

If your child is really sick, is in pain, or need tests or treatments, they may need to be 'admitted' to hospital. This means they are an inpatient which is what we call people who are staying in hospital overnight or for an extended period of time.

Person packing folded clothes into a blue backpack on a bed in a bedroom.

What to bring to hospital

We have created a checklist so you don't forget anything during your overnight or long-term stay.

Child sitting on a chair looking up at an adult sitting beside them, in a softly lit room.

Talking to your child about coming to hospital

Learn tips on calmly talking to your child about their illness or operation.

Surgical team in an operating room under bright theatre lights, preparing for a procedure.

Surgery admission process

Find out about the admission process, including when admission and surgery are on different days.

An adult and a child sitting by the window, with a hospital bed in front of them.

Patient rooms

Learn about the features of your child's hospital room, things they can watch and play, and how to call for assistance.

Child sitting at a table in a hospital room, smiling and holding a spoon, with cups and food in front.

Ordering your child's meals

Find out how to order your child's meals, who to speak to about their dietary needs and times when they're not able to eat.

Adult and child sitting at a table together, looking at each other while working on papers with a pencil in a classroom setting.

Hospital schools

Learn about enrolling your child in one of our Hospital Schools and keeping them connected to their learning journey.