Unexpected Hospital Stay for Asthma

 

 

 

I think it's important to remember that asthma can be unpredictable. I can remember one time when we thought we would take Son #2 to the ER "just to get some chest x-rays and make sure he was okay"

An hour later, I was standing in his hospital room in the Pediatrics wing, wearing a skirt and high heels. I hadn't thought to change after work, because I was certain he would be treated and released from the Emergency Department. 

 

Well, that's what I get for doing my own thinking.

I had to ask the nurse for a set of scrubs and some slippers that I could sleep in. They also brought a toothbrush and toothpaste and took care of me too.

 
Since that time, I have learned to plan ahead. If I'm really worried about Son #2 or Kitty, I quickly change into a pair of workout pants, long sleeve t-shirt, sports bra, and socks with sneakers. 

 

It's a comfy out fit to sleep in next to the kid's hospital bed, and I can still be be presentable when the staff comes in to check on him or friends come to visit.

I also have a large purse, so I throw in a water bottle, granola bars, trail mix, fruit and gum. I hate leaving the kid's bedside when they're in the hospital, so I try to bring everything I might need. 

 

I also grab a few magazines. Some days can be REALLY long when you have a son or daughter in the hospital. I also make sure my cell phone is charged and I have an extra charger.

It helps to grab your child's comfort items too - blanket, stuffed animal, portable CD player and favorite CD they listen to to go to sleep.

You may think, "I don't need to bring anything, I'll be back home in a couple of hours". Well, just in case things don't go as well as planned, remember the Boy Scout motto "Be prepared".

Having a child in the hospital is an incredibly stressful time, and you can feel quite helpless. But when I bring my own water, snacks, and something to keep me busy, I feel a little more in control. 

 

I don't have to press the call light and ask the nurse for a glass of juice or a few crackers. They're too busy taking care of patients. I feel like I have what I need, so we can hunker down in the room and pass the day watching movies, playing games, or sleeping.
 

I hope none of you have an unexpected hospital stay, but it happens. If you grab a few things before you leave the house, you won't feel so much like a deer caught in the headlights. 

 

Asthma can be unpredictable, but we at least we can control our reaction to it.