Download Welcome - Westchester Medical Center

Welcome
Welcome.....
to Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital at Westchester Medical Center and thank you
for choosing us to help meet your child’s healthcare needs. Our team of more
than 4,000 physicians, nurses, technologists, therapists, pharmacists, residents,
volunteers and others are dedicated to providing the best medical care available
and to make your child’s stay at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital at Westchester
Medical Center as brief and as restful as possible.
For every staff person you meet, there are dozens of highly trained professionals
that you don't see, all working to ensure that you and your child are comfortable
and all committed to restoring your child’s health quickly.
This booklet is for you, the parent of a child in Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital.
Whether your child is in the hospital for a critical illness or injury, an operation, a
medical evaluation or a diagnostic test, this can be an overwhelming and
stressful time for you. As a parent you are the most important person in your
child’s life. While your child is in the hospital, your attention, love and concern
are still his or her greatest comfort. To meet this need, we encourage you to
participate in your child’s care whenever possible. We will work with you and
your family to understand this hospitalization. We hope that this informational
booklet will answer some of your questions and be helpful in your adjustment to
the hospital environment. Do not hesitate to speak up, to ask questions or to
express any concerns.
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If during your stay, you have any concerns, questions or comments about your
care, treatment or any of our services, please speak with your nurse, physician
or a Patient Advocate, extension 8877, so that we can address the issue
quickly and to your satisfaction.
Mission Statement
The Mission of Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital at Westchester Medical Center
is to set the standard for family centered, compassionate care in an environment
that attracts outstanding physicians and staff, positively impart healing and
wellness to all children and families and to be an advocate for children’s health
in the extended community.
Family Centered Care Statement
Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital at Westchester Medical Center is committed to
Family Centered Care. We recognize the family unit as the primary source of
strength and support for our patients. We realize the information families provide
is invaluable and comes from a unique perspective which can impact clinical
decision making. We acknowledge that the implementation of Family Centered
Care leads to better health outcomes. As healthcare professionals in partnership
with the family we hope to assist in achieving the child’s health care goals in a
mutually supportive and compassionate environment.
The Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital embraces the core principals of Family
Centered Care:
• Treating each child and his or her family with dignity and respect
• Providing complete, unbiased and timely medical information to families
• Encouraging the family to participate in the care and decision making of the
child to the level they feel most comfortable
• Recognizing the importance of racial, ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic
diversity and its impact on the family’s experience and perception of care
• Identifying and building on the strengths of each child and family, even in
difficult and challenging situations.
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Maria Fareri’s Story
Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital at Westchester Medical Center was born from
a vision shared by many people, including Brenda and John Fareri. In 1995,
Brenda and John’s 13 year-old daughter Maria became ill for no apparent
reason. She was taken to a local hospital, however a firm diagnosis of her
condition was not made. As her symptoms progressed, it was suggested that
Brenda and John take Maria to Westchester Medical Center with its many
pediatric specialists. Within a day, Maria was diagnosed with rabies. Rabies is
100 percent curable if detected and treated immediately, but 100 percent fatal if
left untreated for a period of time. By the time Maria got to Westchester
Medical Center, it was too late. In a little more than a week, Maria passed
away.
Brenda and John were devastated over the death of their daughter, but as they
slowly emerged from their grief they started to think: “Why shouldn’t there be
a world-class children’s hospital to serve the Hudson Valley and Fairfield
County, Connecticut?” With the support of the medical center’s administration
and the Department of Pediatrics, the journey began to create a facility unlike
any before that would be a lasting tribute to Maria while helping countless
children and their families for decades to come.
Soon thereafter, Maria’s teacher contacted Brenda and John and shared with
them the results of an assignment given to Maria’s class before she became ill:
“If you had one wish, what would it be?” Maria’s wish was:
“For the health and well-being of all the children in the world.”
With Maria’s spirit guiding them, her parents, family and over 20,000 members
of the community made Maria’s wish a reality.
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Contents
About Our Hospital
Welcome to Maria Fareri
Children’s Hospital ..........................1
Mission Statement............................2
Family Centered Care Statement .....2
Maria Fareri’s Story .........................3
About the Hospital ...........................5
Welcome to Our
Neighborhood
Staying With Your child...................6
Neighborhoods.................................6
Visitors .............................................7
Hospital Routines.............................7
In General.........................................8
Safety ...............................................8
Infection Control..............................8
Pain Management.............................9
Child Life and Creative Arts
Therapy Department ........................9
Family Resource Center.................11
Who’s Taking Care of
Your Child? ....................................12
Glossary of Terms ..........................16
Where Do I Find?
Parking ...........................................18
Telephone.......................................18
TV service ......................................18
Transportation ................................18
Religious services ..........................19
Hotels/Motels.................................20
Restaurants.....................................20
Shopping ........................................20
Movie Theaters ..............................21
ATM ...............................................21
Banks..............................................21
Relaxation ......................................21
Family Resource Center.................21
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Safe Spaces ....................................21
Laundry Room ...............................21
Kosher Refrigerator .......................22
Children’s Hospital Foundation .....22
Internet Access ...............................22
Interpreter Services ........................22
Directions.......................................22
Commonly Asked Questions..........23
Children’s Reaction to
Hospitalization
Developmental Reactions ..............25
Patients’ Bill of Rights ............27
Notes ......................................29-31
TV Channels .............................32
About the Hospital
Westchester Medical Center is the leading academic medical center, tertiary
care center and Level I Trauma Center serving the Hudson Valley and
surrounding areas. Our 635 bed facility is home to some of the nations top
specialists. The Medical Center consists of the following; Main Hospital,
Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Health Center. The following
Centers of Excellence are also part of the Medical Center: George E. Reed
Heart Center, Zalmen Arlin Cancer Institute, Transplant Center, Neuroscience
Center and Joel A. Halpern Trauma and Burn Center.
IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS
Hospital
(914) 493-7000
Concierge Services
(914) 493-7505
Emergency Department
(914) 493-7307
Family Resource Center
(914) 493-8503
Parking Information
(914) 493-7932
Patient Advocates
(914) 493-8877
Pediatric Emergency Department (914) 493-8671
Privacy Officer
(914) 493-2600
Social Work
(914) 493-7631
Volunteer Office
(914) 493-7850
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WELCOME TO OUR
NEIGHBORHOOD
Having a hospitalized child can be a stressful event for the entire family. Staff
of Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital at Westchester Medical Center are
sensitive to this and will assist in orienting you and your family to the unit and
to the routine occurrences of the day.
Staying with your Child – Parents are encouraged to stay with their child. Each
room is equipped with sleeping accommodations for one family member. Please,
only one family member may spend the night and appropriate sleeping attire
must be worn. Siblings of the patient may visit on a planned basis but may not
sleep overnight. For safety reasons, parents are not to sleep in bed with their
child or allow their child to sleep with them in their bed. Unfortunately, it may be
necessary to turn the lights on in the room at night to provide nursing care,
administer medication or treatments. We are sorry if you are disturbed.
We encourage you to personalize your child’s room with familiar items from
home. Things such as special blankets or pillows, pictures or stuffed animals
can be comforting for your child during stressful times. Please do not use tape
on the walls.
Each room has a telephone and a TV/VCR-DVD. Please refer to the section on
Telephones and TV in the Where Do I Find Section for more information.
Neighborhoods – The general pediatric units are located on the third floor of
the Children’s Hospital. The units are divided by age group into different
“neighborhoods”. Every effort is made to admit your child to the age
appropriate unit. However, bed availability may at times require an alternative
unit assignment. Each neighborhood has its own theme and décor and are
situated around a communications center.
Younger children are in one of three neighborhoods:
• Infants are in the Sailing Neighborhood. (Rooms 3102-3118)
• Toddlers are in the Heroes Neighborhood. (Rooms 3120-3138)
• Preschool children are in the Flight Neighborhood. (Rooms 3140-3156)
Older children are in different neighborhoods:
• School-aged children are in the Theater Neighborhood. (Rooms 3200-3218)
• Adolescent Unit is the Literature Neighborhood. (Rooms 3240-3256)
• Oncology Unit is in the Arts Neighborhood. (Rooms 3220-3238)
Pediatric Intensive Care Unit provides specialized care for seriously injured or
ill children and adolescents.
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Please feel free to walk around to see the other neighborhoods and enjoy the
unique character of each. Due to infection control concerns we ask that you not
visit the Arts neighborhood.
To acquaint you with your neighborhood, each has a nutritional center containing
juice and snacks. There is a separate sitting area for families so you can be close
to your child, but you do not have to be in their room. There are separate
playrooms off of each communications center containing age appropriate toys for
each age group.
For teens and other technology-savvy children, there is the Lion’s Den (room
3272), an interactive game room that provides kids with a respite during their
hospital stays. In addition to gaming and other electronic equipment, the
rooms have the latest communications tools so children can connect with
family and friends anywhere in the world. The Lion’s Den at Maria Fareri
Children’s Hospital (there are Lion’s Dens in other children’s hospitals in
North America) has multiple video game systems, personal computers with
Internet access, a video conference pod and a large, flat screen television.
Now for your room. Most of our patient rooms on the third floor are single
rooms. Each room is equipped with a bathroom, closets, telephone, a flat
plasma screen television and DVD/VCR player. There is also a sofa that
converts to a single bed to accommodate the parent staying overnight. Please
do not bring any additional furniture/mats to the hospital as they may impede
the staff’s ability to care for your child.
The nursing station is in the center of all the rooms in each neighborhood.
Visitors – We encourage your family and friends to visit your child. It is up to you
to decide who can visit, when they visit and how long they stay. Please talk to
your nurse about who can visit and what your plans are for visitation with your
child. If any of your visitors are not feeling well, please ask them to reschedule.
Your child does need rest periods during the day. Rest is an important part of the
recovery process. Please keep this in mind when scheduling visits. We need to
plan together to provide an environment that is conducive to healing.
If younger children are visiting, please be sure they have adult supervision at all
times. For infection control reasons, the playroom is for use by patients only.
Parents may stay with children 24 hours a day.
Hospital Routines – each day can be different for your child depending on
needed tests or procedures. Some basic things to expect on a daily basis are:
• Physician rounds – The attending physicians usually visit each patient
with the medical residents responsible for their care in the morning and
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evening. Speak to your child’s nurse or physician about the usual rounding
time. Parents are encouraged to be present during physician rounds in
order to provide input and learn from the team regarding their child’s
medical condition and progress.
• Vital signs – Vital signs is a term used to describe taking temperature,
pulse, respirations and blood pressure. These are usually taken about every
four hours on the pediatric floors and more often, sometimes every one to
two hours in the Intensive Care Units. The frequency of vital signs often
depends on your child’s medical condition, the treatments and the
medications he/she is receiving.
• Meals – are delivered to each patient three times a day.
• Bathing – there is a private bathroom in each patient room on the general
pediatric neighborhoods on the third floor. You and your child may use
this. In the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) there are bathrooms for
families in the Family Lounge.
In General
• Smoking is prohibited in all areas of Westchester Medical Center.
Smoking outside is restricted to designated smoking areas
• Patients may not leave the patient care unit without permission from your
nurse.
• Take all medication only as prescribed. Do not take medication brought
from home, including over-the-counter medications.
• Carefully follow diet and exercise plans.
Safety
• Please supervise your children at all times; they should not be left
unattended anywhere in the hospital.
• Please do not disconnect any monitoring equipment without the
knowledge of the nurse responsible for your child’s care.
• Always put the side rails up when leaving your child in their crib.
• Please inform your nurse if you are taking your child out of the
neighborhood.
• All patients will be required to wear an electronic bracelet that is part of
our Child Abduction Safety System.
Infection Control Issues
• Hand washing – ANYONE touching your child should have washed his/ her
hands. Do not hesitate to ask if any person touching your child has washed
their hands. Staff use soap and water or the special gel provided to wash
hands. Watch a video about hand hygiene at www.worldclassmedicine.com/
handhygiene
• Isolation – if your child has been placed in isolation, please speak to the
nurse to be sure you understand the reasons why and what precautions you
and visitors need to take.
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Pain Management
Pain management is the right of every child and an important part of their care
and recovery. Our goal is to keep your child as comfortable as possible during
his/her stay. With the addition of our Distraction Station, other therapeutic
methods can be used to assist your child with uncomfortable procedures. We
expect that you will be involved in helping us to meet the pain management
goals for your child. Please do not hesitate to speak to a team member. We also
have a special booklet, Stopping the Ouch that explains more about the
importance of pain management.
Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy Department
The Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy Department helps children and
families adjust to and understand hospitalization, illness, injury, and treatment.
The Child Life team is comprised of Certified Child Life Specialists, Board
Certified Music Therapist and a Board Certified Art Therapist. These are
professionals with advanced training in areas related to working with children
and families in medical settings. All team members hold either Bachelor’s or
Master’s degrees in the areas of child life, child development, music therapy or
art therapy. In addition, each team member maintains professional certification
in their respective field
Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy Department includes:
Developmentally Appropriate Activities in Groups or at Bedside
Children’s activities are based on age, ability, interest, and needs. Group
activities are held in the infant, toddler and preschool playroom, the
school-age playroom, Companions in Courage Lion’s Den or the art
studio. If your child is unable to leave the room, activities can be brought
to the bedside. Group activities help children socialize with peers, serve to
normalize the hospital experience and provide opportunities for selfexpression. Bedside activities are designed to meet individual needs.
Medical Play
Children of all ages are encouraged to play with “pretend” or actual
medical equipment as a way of learning about the hospital environment
and its procedures. Medical play allows children to act out their feelings
and concerns, while also alerting the Child Life Specialist to any
misconceptions the child may have.
Preparation
Research has shown that preparing children properly before a procedure
helps them cope both during and after their hospitalization. Using
developmentally appropriate language, children learn about upcoming
procedures, focusing on the sensations they are likely to experience such as
sight, sound, taste, smell and touch. Special teaching dolls and photo
preparation books are commonly used.
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Procedural Support
Child Life and Creative Art Therapy staff members help children in
developing their own coping strategies through the use of imagery,
distraction, relaxation and music, in order to reduce anxiety and stress during
procedures. Child Life staff also assist parents in supporting the child during
procedures.
Special Programs and Visitors
Special programs are planned throughout the year to provide
entertainment as well as distraction from the daily hospital routine. Special
events and visitors to the hospital are important components of our
program as they offer our children something to look forward to during
their hospitalization. These events include holiday celebrations, boat
building, and regular performances by magicians, among others.
Music Therapy
Heather on Earth Music Therapy is available for all children and families.
A Board Certified music therapist uses music activities, both instrumental
and vocal, designed to help with pain reduction, stress management, selfesteem and emotional expression.
Art Therapy
Art Therapy uses the creative process of art making to improve and
enhance the physical, mental and emotional well-being of patients of all
ages. The creative process helps children cope with illness, reduces stress
and increases self-esteem.
Psychosocial and Emotional Support
The Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy team provides social and
emotional support for children and their families. Support comes in many
ways, such as connecting families who are facing similar
conditions/illnesses, providing education on hospitalization issues that
arise, helping siblings cope and lending a listening ear when needed.
Please do not hesitate to contact our office for support and assistance. The
Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy Department staff may be reached by
dialing 493-6640.
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Family Resource Center
The Family Resource Center is located on the first floor of the Maria Fareri
Children’s Hospital in Room 1118. The Center is a welcoming relaxed setting
with comfortable sofas and chairs, five computers with internet access and a
multitude of children’s books. Families utilize this space for a variety of reasons
including conducting computer searches for healthcare, parenting, finances and
education; obtaining children’s books for the patient and siblings to read or just
to get away for a few minutes to rejuvenate. All families of hospitalized children
are encouraged to use the space. The focus of the Center is to assist families of
hospitalized children with supportive services according to the family’s
individual needs.
For individual assistance, please visit the Family Resource Center or call
extension 8503.
An invaluable addition to the program is the multitalented volunteer force who
pride themselves in being flexible and available to help families in whatever
way necessary. Family Resource Center volunteers assist with a variety of
different services. Some of the services provided include staffing the Laundry
Room, organizing the library books in the Family Resource Center and in
Patient areas and assisting families in developing private webpages for their
child through CarePages. If you would like the assistance of a volunteer, speak
with the Director of Family Support and the Family Resource Center for
further information.
Housed within the Family Resource Center is the Family Business Center. It is
equipped with a fax machine, photo copier, scanner and networked printer. It is
open Monday through Friday from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
Families are welcome to use the Family Resource Center to:
• Participate in a coffee hour or support group for family members of
hospitalized children
• Access the internet and e-mail
• Develop an individualized private webpage for your child through
www.carepages.com
• Conduct personal business
• Recharge your cellphone with the multitelephone recharger
• Talk with someone who understands how difficult it is to have a child in
the hospital
• Take a break and relax just a few steps away from your child’s bedside
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Who is Taking Care of Your Child?
You will see a team of professionals involved in your child’s care. The
different roles and responsibilities of each team member can be confusing at
times. The following list of team members and their responsibilities should
help in understanding what you can expect.
• Attending Physician
Will supervise care and treatment, working closely with all the staff. All
tests, medications, nutritional needs and other aspects of your child’s care
will be administered according to the Attending Physician’s instructions.
My Child’s Attending Physician is: _______________________________
Phone Number: _______________________________________________
• Fellow
A licensed physician who has completed a residency and is preparing to
become certified in a specialty area. (e.g. pulmonary, gastroenterology, etc.)
• Resident Physician
Licensed physician who has graduated after completing medical school. The
Resident works with the Fellows and attending physicians to provide
medical care.
My Child’s Resident Physician is: ________________________________
Phone number: _______________________________________________
Medical students may also participate in rounds and examine your child they
will be appropriately identified. Physicians Assistants (healthcare
professionals licensed to practice medicine with physician supervision),
Nurse Practitioners and Registered Nurses (RNs) who have advanced
education and clinical training in a healthcare specialty area, may also assist
the Attending Physician in your child’s care and treatment.
• Nurse Manager/Nursing Supervisor
A Registered Nurse and the manager of a patient care unit. Special requests
or concerns should be directed to the Nurse Manager.
My Child’s Nurse Manager is: ____________________________________
Phone number:_________________________________________________
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• Registered Nurse
A Registered Nurse supervises the “hands on” care of your child. RN’s are
educated and trained in a variety of specialty areas. There is always a
registered nurse assigned to your child.
My Child’s Nurses are: __________________________________________
Phone number:_________________________________________________
• Nursing Assistant
Under the direction of a Registered Nurse, Nursing Assistants provides
direct care for infants and children including taking vital signs, feeding and
bathing.
My Child’s Nursing Assistant’s are: ________________________________
Phone number:_________________________________________________
• Unit Clerk
Responsible for the clerical work on the unit. The Unit Clerk is at the
nursing station and can take messages for the team and help you find the
people you need to see. They are also responsible for the patients chart and
making sure that all lab reports and information are properly placed.
My Child’s Unit Clerk’s is: _______________________________________
Phone number:_________________________________________________
• Discharge Planning RN
Discharge Planning Nurses coordinates any healthcare needs the patient will
have after discharge.
My Child’s Discharge Planning Nurse is: ____________________________
Phone number:_________________________________________________
• Clinical Nurse Specialist
A Clinical Nurse Specialist is a Registered Nurse who has advanced training
in assisting patients and nurses with clinical issues and education.
My Child’s Clinical Nurse Specialist’s is: ____________________________
Phone number:_________________________________________________
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• Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy Specialists
Child Specialists, including Music Therapists and Art Therapists, are
specially trained in dealing with children’s concerns and reactions to
hospitalization and illness. Through education, play and activities, Child
Life Specialists help children and families understand what is happening
to them physically and emotionally.
My Child’s Child Life Specialists and Creative Arts Specialists are:______
____________________________________________________________
Phone number: _______________________________________________
• Pastoral Care/Chaplains
Chaplains are members of the healthcare team who provide spiritual/
religious resources to meet the needs of patients, families and staff during
times of change and uncertainty. Our team of chaplains is specially trained
to minister to people of diverse faiths in the hospital setting. Clergy of all
faiths and denominations are available to you and your family for prayer,
sacraments and counseling. The chapel is located in the University
Hospital in the Macy Pavilion and is open 24 hours a day. You or your
nurse may call extension 7125 to request a visit from a Chaplain.
My Family’s Chaplain is: _______________________________________
Phone number: _______________________________________________
• Social Worker
A Social Worker is available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to
4:30 p.m. to assist you with problems and concerns related to your child’s
hospitalization. Please let your nurse know if you would like to speak to a
Social Worker.
Our Social Worker is: __________________________________________
Phone number: _______________________________________________
• Physical Therapist
Physical Therapists are professionals with special training in helping people
whose illness affects their joints and muscles, helps develop muscle tone,
endurance, balance and movement.
My Child’s Physical Therapist is: _________________________________
Phone number: _______________________________________________
• Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapists are professionals with special training in helping
children to meet the learning challenges of normal growth and development.
My Child’s Occupational Therapist is: _____________________________
Phone number: _______________________________________________
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• Speech Therapist
Speech Therapists are professionals trained in speech and swallowing
disorders.
My Child’s Speech Therapist is: __________________________________
Phone number: _______________________________________________
• Respiratory Therapist
Respiratory Therapists are professionals with special training in breathing
disorders and the respiratory equipment needed to treat them. Respiratory
Therapists administer respiratory treatments when ordered by the
physician.
My Child’s Respiratory Therapist is: ______________________________
Phone number: _______________________________________________
• Clinical Dietician
Clinical Dieticians are available for personal nutritional counseling.
Specially trained dieticians and clinical aides will gladly assist you with
your child’s specific dietary needs during their hospital stay and can be
reached at extension 7290.
My Child’s Dietician is: ________________________________________
Phone number: _______________________________________________
• Volunteers
Volunteers are from every sector of the community and work in nearly
every department of the hospital, offering the most valuable
commodities…time and caring. Volunteers perform a wide variety of nonmedical services to help make your and your child’s stay as comfortable
and pleasant as possible.
Some of the Volunteer’s names are: _______________________________
• Patient Advocates
Advocates are available to discuss any problems or concerns you may
have about your child’s care or hospital stay. A patient advocate is a
trained professional whose primary responsibility is to serve as your
liaison to the Medical Center and all of its services.
Patient Advocate name is:_______________________________________
Phone number is: 493-8877
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Glossary of Terms
Ambulatory: able to walk; not confined to bed
Antibiotic: medication used to treat various infections
Apnea: a temporary halt in breathing
Aspiration: the act of breathing in fluid or a foreign body or substance
Biopsy: an examination of tissues removed from the body to make a diagnosis
Bradycardia: An abnormally slow heartbeat
CAT Scan, CT Scan: computerized x-ray of a part of the body or the entire
body, more detailed and precise than an ordinary x-ray
Catheter: a thin, hollow tube that can be inserted into the body to withdraw or
insert fluid
Cardiac: pertaining to the heart
CBC (complete blood count): a blood test to see how many and what kind of
blood cells an individual has. The test is done with a very small amount of
blood
Chart: patient’s medical record; holds the complete history of the child’s
illness, medicines and tests from the time of admission until he/she goes home
EEG (electroencephalogram): Recordings of the electrical activity of the brain.
The EEG may be useful in recording seizures
EKG (electrocardiogram): study of heart activity (also ECG)
Endoscopy: a test/procedure in which a flexible tube with a light is used to
look inside a body cavity or organ
Febrile: pertaining to fever
Gastrointestinal: pertaining to all or some of the organs of the digestive tract,
from mouth to anus
Hyperglycemia: a condition where there is too much sugar in the bloodstream
Hypoglycemia: a condition where there is not enough sugar in the
bloodstream
Infusion: the slow injection of a fluid into a vein or tissue
I & O’s: Input and Output that is measured and recorded
I.V.: intravenous, method of putting medicines, fluids or nourishment (liquid
food) directly into the body through a vein
Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): withdrawal of fluid from or injection of
fluid/medicine into the subarachnoid space of membranous coverings of the
lumbar (lower back) spine
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Nasogastric tube (NG tube): a tube inserted through the nose to the stomach,
placed to drain the contents of the stomach or to provide nourishment if a
patient’s swallowing is impaired
NICU: neonatal intensive care unit
NPO: nothing to eat or drink
OR: operating room
PICU: pediatric intensive care unit
Pulse: number of heartbeats per minute
PO: take in orally
Pulmonary: pertaining to the lungs
Renal: pertaining to the kidneys
Rounds: when the healthcare team meets together to discuss patient care
Saline: a watery solution that contains a small amount of salt and is often used
to administer drugs
Seizure: a sudden, involuntary contraction of muscles that results in rhythmic
movements of the body
Sepsis: the infection of tissues by disease causing organisms
Shunt: A device that is inserted into the body to redirect the flow of blood or
other fluid from one area to another
Sputum: a mixture of saliva and mucus that is coughed up from the respiratory
tract
Stenosis: an abnormal narrowing of a passageway, such as a blood vessel or
other type of opening in the body
Suction: removing secretions with a suction devise
Syringe: device used to inject fluid (ie medicine) into IV, muscle or vein; also
used without a needle to give medicine in the mouth
Tachycardia: an abnormally rapid heartbeat
Vital signs: temperature, pulse, blood pressure and respiration
If you have additional questions, please speak with your child’s team of
medical providers.
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WHERE DO I FIND?
Parking – Visitor parking is available in the front of the Children’s Hospital
and the front of the University Hospital. The first 15 minutes of parking is free,
with an hourly rate applied up to a daily maximum fee. Discounted 30 day
parking is available by contacting the hospital’s parking management office at
extension 7932. IMPORTANT: If you park in the Children’s Hospital main lot,
be sure to take your parking ticket with you to the hospital. When you are
leaving, look for the parking payment machine in the Children’s Hospital
lobby to obtain your payment voucher before you leave the hospital.
Telephone – There is no charge for local telephone service calls within the
914 area code from your child’s room phone. Long distance calls need to be
made collect, with a phone card or by dialing 30 and having the call charged to
your home phone number. Please use only the phone in your child’s room.
TV Service – TV service is complimentary for all pediatric patients in the
children’s hospital.
Transportation
Bus Information
(914) 813-7777
Railroads
• Metro North
• AMTRAK
1 (800) METRO-INFO
1(800) 872-7245
Taxi Service
• Classic Ride
• Kelly Transportation
• Kelly’s Taxi
• Greenburgh Taxi
• New Town Taxi
(914) 968-4444
(914) 939-3410
(914) 939-7775
(914) 592-4949
(914) 747-0999
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Religious services and locations – The chapel is located in the
University Hospital in the Macy Pavilion. It is always open as a quiet place for
meditation and prayer. The chapel is available for memorial services, weddings
and special religious observances of all faiths. Special needs can be
accommodated by calling the Pastoral Care Office at extension 7125.
Worship Services at Westchester Medical Center
Sunday
Noon
Roman Catholic Mass*
Main Chapel
Monday
Noon
Roman Catholic Mass*
Main Chapel
Tuesday
Noon
Roman Catholic Mass*
Main Chapel
Wednesday
Noon
Interfaith Prayers for Wholeness*
Main Chapel
Thursday
Noon
Eucharistic Service*
Main Chapel
Friday
Noon
Roman Catholic Mass
Main Chapel
1:30 pm
Juma (Muslim Prayer Service)*
Main Chapel
* Services are broadcast on WMC Channel 68 on hospital
television.
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Local Dining and Overnight Accommodations
There are a number and variety of hotel and motel accommodations and
restaurants within a short driving distance of Westchester Medical Center. A
listing can be obtained by calling the Concierge Desk in the Main Lobby at
extension 7505.
Hotels/Motels – some nearby hotels include:
• Comfort Inn & Suites (914) 592-8600
• Hampton Inn (914) 592-5680
• Westchester Marriott Hotel (914) 631-2200
• Tarrytown Hilton (914) 631-5700
Restaurants – An Au Bon Pain coffee shop is located on the main floor of
the Children’s Hospital off of the main lobby with hours of operation from
7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday - Friday. This located is closed on weekends. There is
an additional Au Bon Pain Cafe located in The University Hospital open 24
hours, 7 days a week. The Market Place Cafe is located on the lower level of
the University Hospital.
• Other restaurants are within a two-mile radius of the hospital.
• Tramontos (Continental) (914) 347-8220
27 Saw Mill River Rd. (Route 9A), Hawthorne
• Applebees (American) (914) 592-9144
20 Saw Mill River Rd. (Route 9A), Hawthorne
• Gasho of Japan (Japanese steakhouse) (914) 592-5900
2 Saw Mill River Rd. (Route 9A), Hawthorne
• Executive Diner (914) 592-5415
26 Saw Mill River Rd. (Route 9A), Hawthorne
• Oriental Diner – Chinese (914) 769-0038
58 Saw Mill River Rd. (Route 9A), Hawthorne
• Wendy’s, 91 Saw Mill River Rd, (Route 9A) Elmsford
• Dunkin Donuts, Saw Mill River Rd, (Route 9A), Elmsford
• McDonalds, Saw Mill River Rd, (Route 9A), Elmsford
Shopping – there are several shopping malls in White Plains. They are
easily accessible by car or bus from the hospital. Ask at the Information Desk
for directions and bus schedules.
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Movie theaters – There are two movie theaters located within a mile of
the hospital.
• Saw Mill Multiplex, 151 Saw Mill River Rd, (Route 9A), Hawthorne
• Greenburgh Multiplex Cinema, 320 Saw Mill River Rd, (Route 9A),
Elmsford
ATM – An ATM is located in the Main Hospital lobby, next to the gift
shop.
Banks –
• JP MorganChase, Saw Mill River Rd, (Route 9A), Elmsford
• Fleet Bank, Route 119, Tarrytown
• Chase Bank, 1150 Knollwood Rd, White Plains
Relaxation – There are several outdoor gardens, one outside the Children’s
Hospital, and another off of the main floor in the University Hospital near
Radiology. A quiet place to get away.
Family Resource Center – Located just off the Children’s Hospital
lobby. This is a centralized place for patients and families to obtain health
information. It is also a space for support groups and a comforting place to get
away from the stress of the nursing unit.
Safe Spaces – The Child Life Playrooms, the neighborhood activity areas,
Art Studio and Lions Den computer room, are places where kids can have fun.
They are places where procedures and treatments cannot be performed. We
want you and your child to be able to visit the many exciting areas within the
hospital. We also need to know where your child is at all times for their safety.
Please let your child’s nurse know if you plan to leave your neighborhood to
visit another area. Your child should not leave the floor without adult
supervision. All patients will have an electronic bracelet that is part of our
Child Abduction Saftey System.
Laundry Room – On the third floor of the Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital
there is a laundry room which is available to all families of hospitalized
children. It is located in room 3519. The room is staffed by volunteers. The
service is complementary. Laundry detergent and softener are provided. The
hours of the Laundry Room are posted on the outside of the room.
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Kosher Refrigerator – On the third floor of the Maria Fareri Children’s
Hospital there is a refrigerator stocked with kosher food by Bukur Cholim. The
refrigerator is located in room 3421.
Children’s Hospital Foundation – Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital at
Westchester Medical Center would not have been possible without the support of
the community. Anyone interested in further supporting Maria Fareri Children’s
Hospital is encouraged to call the Foundation Office at (914) 493-2575.
Internet Access – WiFi is available throughout the Westchester Medical
Center campus.
Interpreter Services – Please ask your child’s nurse or call 493-7850 to
arrange for an interpreter.
Directions
From the East and South
I-287 West to Exit 3 (Sprain Brook Parkway – North). Follow the Sprain
Brook Parkway to the second exit (Route 100 – Hawthorne). At the stop sign at
the top of the exit, turn left. At the next stop sign turn left onto Woods Road.
Pass the University Hospital at Westchester Medical Center. Make a right into
the entrance for Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital.
From the North
Taconic Parkway or Saw Mill River Parkway south to the Sprain Brook
Parkway. Exit at Medical Center – Hawthorne exit. Make a right at the top of
the exit onto Route 100 South. Make a right at the first traffic light onto
Hospital Road. At the next stop sign turn left onto Woods Road. Pass the
University Hospital at Westchester Medical Center. Make a right into the
entrance for Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital.
From the Tappan Zee Bridge
Take the Tappan Zee Bridge (I-87 South/I-287 East) and follow signs for the
Cross Westchester – Route 287 East. Take I-287 to Exit 4. Make a left at the
top of the exit onto Route 100A North, which becomes Route 100 North.
Follow 3.2 miles from exit to the stop sign at Hospital Road. Make a left onto
Hospital Road. At the next stop sign turn left onto Woods Road. Pass the
University Hospital at Westchester Medical Center. Make a right into the
entrance for Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital.
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Commonly Asked Questions
Parking
Where do get information about parking issues?
Can I get a monthly parking voucher? Is it at a discounted rate?
See the Where Do I Find (Page 18)
Food
Are there local restaurants for me to order food from?
Yes, look in the Where Do I Find (Page 18) or ask any of the nursing staff to
assist you.
Security
I don’t want to leave my child alone. Is there someone I can call to sit with my
child while I go to get something to eat or drink?
Speak to the staff about the availability of someone being able to stay with
your child for a short time.
Activities
How do I find out about different activities to help occupy my child’s time?
Events and activity schedules are posted at all playrooms, the Art Studio, the
Lions Den, at each nurses’ station and across from the elevator.
Can my child leave the room? Or the Unit?
It is important that the nursing staff be aware of your child’s whereabouts at all
times. Speak to your child’s nurse before leaving the unit. Unless your child
has been placed on isolation, he/she may leave the room.
Parent Resources
If I am having a frustrating moment, or if I need someone to help me understand
my child’s diagnosis, whom can I call?
Is there someplace I can go to research information?
How can I get my email?
Where can I find a Hotel/Motel?
There are numerous resources available for you. You certainly can speak to your
doctor or nurse at any time regarding your child’s diagnosis. The Family
Resource Center, located off of the Main Lobby, is a rich resource where you can
obtain written information through the internet utilizing reputable websites.
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Use the Family Resource Center for information on hotels, parking or just to
have someone to talk to.
Computer
Can I use my laptop in my child’s room? And where can I hook up?
You can connect to the internet via your personal laptop in your child’s room.
You may also access the Internet in the Family Resource Center off of the
lobby on the main floor. Call the Help desk at extension 1543 to arrange for
wireless access for your laptop.
CarePages
What are CarePages?
CarePages are free, personal, private web pages that help family and friends
communicate when someone is receiving care. It takes just a few minutes to
create a CarePage, share it with friends and family and build a community of
support. The Family Resource Center is equipped to assist you in developing a
CarePage for your child.
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CHILDREN’S REACTION TO
HOSPITALIZATION
Developmental Reactions
Children at different developmental levels react differently to hospitalization.
Knowing the behaviors that are typical for your child at various ages makes it
easier for you to address them. It is also important for you to know how the
stresses of illness and hospitalization affect your child’s feelings and behaviors.
We encourage you to spend as much time as possible with your child. Your
involvement in your child’s care is very important to your child’s comfort and
security. If you can’t be here, try to have family and/or friends spend time with
your child.
It is important to be honest with children, especially if something is going to
hurt.
Below are possible reactions as well as suggestions to help comfort your child.
Children 3 years of age and younger
Children younger than three years generally cannot understand their illness, or
the new change in their familiar environment. They are more concerned about
being away from their family and their home. Toddlers may have difficulty
coping with these changes in their routines, especially related to eating,
sleeping and toileting.
You can help your child by being with them in the hospital. If you can’t be here
try to have family or friends spend time with your child.
Children 3 – 6 years old
Possible Reaction: Children in this age often view the hospital and procedures
as punishment.
Suggested Response: Reassure your child that he/she hasn’t done anything
wrong.
Possible Reaction: Loss of control and fear of the unknown.
Suggested Response: Simple, honest and developmentally appropriate
explanations can help children in this age range feel more secure. Bring a
favorite toy, blanket or clothes from home which may be comforting.
Encourage walking around or playing outside of his/her room with permission
of medical/nursing staff.
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Children 7- 12 years old
Possible Reaction: Children in this age range are often worried about painful
procedures; may believe that hospitalization and procedures are a form of
punishment; and experience a loss of control and independence.
Suggested Response: It is very important to provide information to this age
group. Ask staff, whenever possible, to inform your child in advance of what is
going to happen (procedures, changes in the environment etc.). Giving your
child choices when they exist is important in helping them regain some control.
Adolescents 12 and up
Possible Reaction: Adolescents are concerned about loss of control; separation
from their friends; and may be very self-conscious.
Suggested Response: It is important to respect their privacy whenever
possible. Encourage an adolescent to ask questions and include him/her in
discussions and decision making. Support social interactions with friends via
phone, email and visits.
Parents and caregivers
The hospital environment is not only stressful for the child but also the family.
It is very important for parents and caregivers to make sure to meet their own
needs during this time. This will help best support your child.
If you would like to speak with someone further about developmental
reactions, have questions or would like to participate in a support group, please
contact the Family Resource Cener at extension 8503.
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Patients’ Bill of Rights
As a patient in a hospital in New York State, you have the right, consistent with
the law, to:
1. Understand and use these rights. If for any reason you do not understand
these rights or you need help understanding them, the hospital must
provide assistance, including an interpreter.
2. Receive treatment without discrimination as to race, color, religion, sex,
national origin, disabilities, sexual orientation or source of payment.
3. Receive considerate and respectful care in a clean and safe environment
free of unnecessary restraints.
4. Receive emergency care if you need it.
5. Be informed of the name and position of the doctor who will be in
charge of your care in the hospital.
6. Know the names, positions and functions of any hospital staff involved
in care and refuse their treatment, examination or observation.
7. A no smoking room.
8. Receive complete information about your diagnosis, treatment and
prognosis.
9. Receive all the information that you need to give informed consent for
any proposed procedure or treatment. This information shall include the
possible risks and benefits of the procedure or treatment.
10. Receive all the information that you need to give informed consent for
an order not to resuscitate. You also have the right to designate an
individual to give this consent for you if you are too ill to do so. If you
would like additional information, please ask for a copy of the pamphlet
Do Not Resuscitate Orders–A Guide for Patients and Families.
11. Refuse treatment and be told what affect this may have on your health.
12. Refuse to take part in research. In deciding whether or not to participate,
you have the right to a full explanation.
13. Privacy while in the hospital and confidentiality of all information and
records regarding your care.
14. Participate in all decisions about your treatment and discharge from the
hospital. The hospital must provide you with a written discharge plan
and written description of how you can appeal your discharge.
15. Review your medical records without charge and obtain a copy of your
medical records for which the hospital can charge a reasonable fee. You
can not be denied a copy solely because you cannot afford to pay.
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16. Receive an itemized bill and explanation of all charges. (Westchester
Medical Center uses an "all inclusive" charge approved by New York
State.)
17. Complain without fear of reprisals about the care and service you are
receiving and to have the hospital respond to you and, if you request it,
a written response. If you are not satisfied with the hospital's response,
you can complain to the New York State Health Department. The
hospital must provide you with the Health Department’s telephone
number (914) 654-7000.
18. Authorize those family members and other adults who will be given
priority to visit consistent with your ability to receive visitors.
19. Make known your wishes in regard to anatomical gifts. You may
document your wishes in your health care proxy or on a donor card,
available from the hospital.
A video entitled “Your Rights as a Patient” is shown several times a day on the
hospital's patient education channel.
If you have any questions about these rights, please contact a Patient Advocate
at extension 8877.
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Notes
29
Notes
30
Notes
31
TV Channels
CH 2
CBS
CH 32
COURT TV
CH 3
E!
CH 33
SCI – FI CHANNEL
CH 4
NBC
CH 34
CARTOON NETWORK
CH 5
FOX
CH 35
BLOOMBERG NEWS
CH 6
CNN
CH 36
TBS
CH 7
ABC
CH 37
HEALTH CHANNEL
CH 8
UNIVISION (Spanish)
CH 38
WORD
CH 9
UPN
CH 40
QVC
CH 10
DISCOVERY CHANNEL
CH 41
BET
CH 11
WPIX (WB –11)
CH 42
NICK JR.
CH 12
TELEMUNDO (Spanish)
CH 43
FOX NEWS
CH 13
WNET (PBS)
CH 45
MARQUEE CHANNEL
CH 14
VH –1
CH 66
BULLETIN BOARD
CH 15
WEATHER CHANNEL
CH 67
VIDEO SCHEDULER
CH 16
TNT
CH 68
CHAPEL (free)
CH 17
ABC FAMILY
CH 69
PATIENT EDUCATION
CH 22
MSG
CH 70
PATIENT EDUCATION
CH 23
USA
CH 71
PATIENT EDUCATION
CH 24
AMC (American Movie
Classics)
CH 72
PATIENT EDUCATION
CH 73
CH 25
TLC
RELAXATION
CHANNEL
CH 26
CNBC
CH 75
CH 27
DISNEY
NEWBORN CHANNEL English Version (Maternity
Only)
CH 28
ANIMAL PLANET
CH 76
CH 29
MSNBC
NEWBORN CHANNEL Spanish Version (Maternity
Only)
CH 31
CNN HEADLINE NEWS
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