April 2, 2001
FAMILY MATTERS:
Knowledge can ease hospital anxieties
___I'm going in for surgery soon, and my child is asking questions about what is going to happen, not only to me but to her. My husband and I have assured her she will be at home each night with her dad and everything will be OK. How can I help relieve her anxieties?
KAY TOWERS
Program Coordinator
LifeWay Fellowship, Killeen
___Your attitude, calmness and reassurance can help ease your child's fears. The fact she is talking about it gives you the opportunity to discuss and correct misconceptions she might have. Explain in her vocabulary and level of understanding what is going to happen.
___Separation often is the biggest part of the anxiety children experience. Talk with her about what will take place on the day you go into the hospital. If possible, take her to the hospital ahead of time so she will know where you are going to be. Let her know what her schedule will be on that day. Make sure she knows where she is going to be and who will be taking care of her. Tell her that when the surgery is over, her dad or someone at the hospital will call and let her know.
___As soon as it is possible, a call and hearing your voice adds reassurance. Most hospitals today allow children to visit a family member in the hospital. Check ahead of time, and if this is possible, make arrangements for her to see you. Daily phone calls and/or visits will mean a lot.
___Prior to going into the hospital, prepare cards or notes she can open each morning while you are away. This connection brings calmness and peace. Ask her to create a journal, either written or through pictures, of what she does each day. She can look forward to sharing this with you when you come home.
___It might be possible for your husband to plan to do something special with her while you are in the hospital. A trip to the ice cream shop or out to dinner would give her an opportunity to spend time with one parent and to have the opportunity to talk about any questions or anxieties she might still have.
___Allow her to hear you praying and thanking God for the doctors and medical staff who will care for you. Remind her she can pray for you while you are in the hospital and you will be praying for her. Let her know that just as God will be with you, he also will be with her while you're apart.
___This can be a growing experience for the entire family. Your strength and faith will be an example to her as she learns to trust God in all situations.
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