Why You Can’t Take Your Child Beyond Security Doors in a Hospital
Your child’s well-being and safety are paramount once they are admitted to the hospital. While initially this might seem restrictive, the hospital’s protocols are in place to ensure the safety of all patients and staff. This article will explain why certain rules are implemented and provide insights into the hospital’s responsibilities and restrictions.
Why You Can’t Take Your Child Beyond the Security Doors
Once a child is admitted to a hospital, they become the responsibility of medical professionals. This means that even if a parent wishes to take their child to a vending machine or different unit, it is against the hospital’s policies. This is similar to a situation where a newborn must stay on the maternity floor; the hospital has a duty to protect and ensure the safety of every patient within its care.
For example, when a child is admitted, the hospital must cater to their specific needs and monitor their condition. They must also ensure the child does not leave the designated area unless a healthcare provider deems it necessary and mandates the presence of a trained individual, such as someone with CPR certification.
The Importance of Hospital Safety Protocols
Hospitals have strict safety protocols to protect their patients and staff. This is particularly crucial in pediatric units, where small and vulnerable patients require additional care. One such protocol involves keeping alarms active if a patient needs to be taken from their unit.
In the case of a children’s hospital, if a patient must go off-unit, they must be accompanied by a trained individual, such as a staff member or a family member with CPR certification. This is to ensure that in the event of an emergency, lifesaving activities can be commenced immediately if necessary.
Examples of Patient Safety Concerns
Several incidents in hospitals demonstrate why these strict protocols are necessary. One such example involves a child with a brain tumor who required transportation for a scan. Due to short staffing, a volunteer stepped in to transport the child. The situation highlights the importance of having trained individuals manage medical transports. Even in cases like these, the volunteer was monitored to ensure the safety of the child.
Another instance involved two toddlers with late-stage AIDS. The hospital was required to keep these children under strict supervision due to the actions of their mothers. In one case, a mother became impaired and could not be trusted to take her child off-unit. In another case, a child with severe deformities and behavioral issues posed additional risks, even for a trained volunteer.
The Broader Context of Hospital Restrictions
Hospitals must balance the needs of patients with the safety of all individuals on-site. Restrictions are implemented to safeguard against dangerous situations, such as visitors taking premature infants off-unit where they can be exposed to bacteria. Additionally, there are instances where domestic violence and other issues spill into the hospital setting, necessitating further restrictions to create a safe environment.
For example, in psychiatric units, patients are housed in a highly controlled environment to prevent self-harm or harm to others. Patients in these units are not allowed to use the hospital’s vending machines or canteens due to their specific dietary needs and to foster a therapeutic environment.
Conclusion: Balancing Patient Rights and Safety
While parents have rights to visit and take care of their children, the safety and best interests of the patient always come first. Hospitals must enforce certain rules based on best practices to ensure that all patients receive the care they need in a safe and therapeutic environment. If you have concerns about these restrictions, you can always speak with the hospital’s staff for clarification or a meeting to discuss your needs.