Parents are encouraged to be involved in their child's care. Facilities for a parent or guardian to stay overnight, parents' ensuite, tea, coffee and a light breakfast are provided.

The unit holds a preparation program for children booked in for elective surgery and their parents or guardians. Every Sunday at 2pm, the hour-long program includes a video, play session, tour of the unit and a visit to the operating theatre complex. This valuable preparation for any child having an operation is provided free of charge.

The family choice program is operated in liaison with the Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne. A home care nurse from the Child and Adolescent Unit co-ordinates the training of carers to provide support and respite for families with a child with complex medical needs in their own home.

 
Web Sites:

Royal Childrens Hospital