When you receive care at Banner Children's, you can be assured that every possible step is being taken to ensure your child receives the best and safest care possible.

You can take an active role in your child's care by understanding the condition, the treatment options available, what to expect during treatment, and what they can do to help your child recover.

Ask Questions

• Your child's physician, nurse, pharmacist, benefits plan coordinator or any health care provider you see should be prepared and eager to answer your questions. If you forgot to ask a question when visiting with the physician, write it down and call back.
• Find out as much as you can about illnesses or conditions that affect your family. Ask your care providers to provide you with an overview of your child's visit and to give you any information you might need for treatment and recovery.
• Talk to the physician about all treatment options. If you wish, seek a second opinion.
• Choose a physician, clinic, pharmacy and hospital experienced in the care you and your family's needs.

While Your Child is in the Hospital

• It is critical that hospital staff properly identify your child before every treatment and procedure. Before the admitting staff puts an ID bracelet on your child, confirm his/her name and make sure the information on it is correct.
• Ask the nurse about all the medicines he or she gives your child, including what they are and why your child needs them.
• Please do not tamper with devices, including IV pumps. If you have questions about them, ask a nurse.
• Tell hospital staff if your child is part of a research study. They need to know this!
• Please wash your hands and your child's hands often and remind others to do so to best help prevent infections.
• Be sure your primary care doctor knows your child is or was in the hospital.
• For your safety, our pharmacy will give you all the prescriptions your child needs while in the hospital. If you have personal medications for your child, take them with you. Tell your nurse if your child must use your medications from home for any reason. We will work with you and your doctor to make sure your child takes medicine safely.
• Finally, if something just doesn't feel right or safe, or if your child feels worried, tell a doctor or nurse right away.

Follow your Health Care Instructions

• Get your child's instructions in writing. We want you to have the information you need to care for your child at home.
• Read all instructions and ask questions until you understand them.
• Ask the physician, nurse or pharmacist to explain all written instructions to you.
• Your child should take medications exactly as prescribed. If you or your child has concerns or notice side effects, talk with your physician.
• If you have any questions or concerns about your child's safety, tell a nurse, physician or therapist.

Work with Your Physician and Other Care Providers

• Write down your child's medical history and conditions or illnesses including immunizations, allergies, time spent in a hospital, all the medications your child is taking (including over-the-counter drugs), vitamins, supplements and herbs.
• Share up-to-date information about your child's health history and care with everyone treating your child.  
• Don't assume the hospital staff and physicians know what treatments your child is receiving from other physicians and/or specialists.
• Pay attention. If something doesn't seem correct, tell the physician or care provider.
• If you have any questions or concerns about your child's safety, tell the nurse, physician or therapist.
• Write down the names and phone numbers of the physicians, clinics and pharmacies treating your child for quick and easy reference.