Here are a few tips to help you prepare your child for an out-patient appointment, such as a visit to the pediatrician or physical therapy session.
Documentation and paper work
- Insurance information
- Photo ID
- Co-pay (if applicable)
- Relevant medical records (if applicable)
- Questionnaires or forms sent to you in advance (if applicable)
- A list of any current medications your child is using
Familiar items from home
- Infants (0-12 months): A favorite blanket, toy or pacifier (if the child is having a procedure, a familiar bottle for after the procedure may be appropriate — ask your doctor)
- Children from (1-12 years old): A favorite blanket, toy or other item
- Teens (12-19 years old): Music player/iPod®, cards, games, movies, books, cell phone, laptop or iPad®
Needle procedure preparation
If your child may be having a needle procedure (such as a shot, blood draw or IV), you may want to ask your care provider if you should bring:
- Sugar water
- Numbing anesthetic cream: 4% lidocaine
Learn about our steps to lessen needle pain.
Top 10 things to bring with you to the hospital
From the Children’s Minnesota Youth Advisory Council
- Your own blanket, pillow, music and stuffed animal
- Loose PJs from home (Children’s Minnesota has PJs you can wear, too)
- Slippers and socks — sometimes you can wear your own clothes (ask your doctor)
- Toothbrush, comb, lotion, personal items and a hat (so you don’t get “bed head”)
- Your own electric devices (iPod, laptop, handheld electronic device, etc.)
- Things that help you relax, like music, books, magazines and pictures
- Phone numbers and email addresses of family and friends
- Questions for doctors, nurses and other care givers
- Posters, pictures, decorations for your room
- A positive attitude — everyone is here to help you — you’ll do great!
