The Department of Health has produced an online video to enable children and their parents to familiarise themselves with the Children’s Ward at Noble’s Hospital prior to a visit.
 
Minister for Health, David Anderson MHK said: “This is a fantastic initiative and goes to show that ensuring patients – no matter how young – are comfortable and well informed is a priority.  Most children and parents are naturally anxious about coming into hospital.  With the child knowing their environment, they are likely to be more comfortable attending appointments, thus reducing any uncertainty and distress at what can be a daunting experience.
 
“This video is one of a number of steps that the Department is taking to ensure the public can find out more about their health service.  The Department is working tirelessly to communicate more effectively through the use of technology, increasing public access to information about local healthcare – particularly online.”
 
The video shows the fun and educational facilities available on Children’s Ward, including the conservatory play area, the painting and arts room, and the school room for when patients need quiet time to study.  Members of staff’s children took part as volunteer actors in the video and are shown being welcomed to the Ward, watching DVD’s, undergoing tests by the nurses, and enjoying the activities on offer.  The video also displays the colourful and cheerful environment that Noble’s Hospital provides for its younger patients, helping children to relax, play and interact with other youngsters.
 
Eugene Wilson, Lead Nurse for Paediatric Services said: “The video’s aim is to give children and their parents some insight of what the Children’s Ward is about and also relieve any stress that hospitalisation can create.  On the Children’s Ward we try very hard to create a ‘child friendly environment’ which along with the aid of this video will enhance the child’s patient journey at Noble’s Hospital.  A happy child on the Ward means happy parents.
 
“I’d encourage any parents anticipating a visit to Children’s Ward to watch the video with their child and discuss what to expect.”
 
You can view the video online at: www.gov.im/health/services/Hospitals/nobles/WomenChildrenandOutpatients/PaediatricServices/childrensward.xml