Search RHCG Website
Select your language
Scroll back to top of page

Staying with your child in hospital

exp date isn't null, but text field is

We encourage one parent or caregiver to stay with their child while they are an inpatient. A second parent care/giver is able to visit. Sometimes it will be possible for both parents to stay and this will be assessed on a case-by-case-basis.

Brothers and sisters cannot stay overnight on the ward. This is due to space restrictions and the need for staff to access patients quickly and easily at all times. The nominated caregiver must be over the age of 16 and able to look after themselves.

If your child has been admitted with COVID-19 symptoms, you must adhere to government guidance on self-isolation and remain in your room, where possible. Avoid visiting eating venues and shops.
Facilities for parents & carers

If you are staying on the ward with your child you will be provided with overnight facilities (usually a fold away bed). Where possible, this will be at your child's bedside, however, if your child is in critical care there are different options such as Ronald McDonald House or a local hotel, all options will be discussed with you by the YPFF team, each case is assessed individually.

There are toilet and shower facilities for parent/caregivers on every inpatient ward. In most circumstances, there is a toilet & shower in every room which allows you to stay close to your child.

Please bring your night clothes, toiletries and anything else you might want to keep you comfortable for your overnight stay.

Meals

If you are the parent or caregiver who is staying with your child and have tested positive for COVID-19, breakfast, lunch and dinner will be provided from the patient food trolley until you are able to leave the room again.

We have parent facilities on the 3rd floor. Within the parent rooms, we have a range of bowls, cups, cutlery and cooking equipment that you are able to use to prepare food. For more information on the parent rooms, please ask a member of staff.

Staff are able to heat milk for babies.

Face coverings

Currently within the hospital environment, we advise you wear a fluid resistant face covering. A face covering must be worn by parents/caregivers in all clinical areas of the children's hospital, unless you are exempt for medical reasons.

There will be face coverings available at the entrance to the hospital.

Please wear your face covering when leaving your child’s bedside/room or when a member of staff enters your child's room.

Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU)

Please note, it is not possible for parents or caregivers to stay with their child in the Intensive Care Unit. Alternative accommodation will be provided within the Children's Hospital, Ronald McDonald House or within a local hotel.

Smoking

The Royal Hospital for Children is committed to providing a smoke free environment for children and their families. Smoking is not permitted within the buildings or grounds of the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital campus, where the hospital is located. This applies to all staff, patients and visitors. 

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 21 November 2022

Next review: 19 March 2024