At the Royal Free, we have special facilities and paediatric trained staff to look after children if they need to be admitted. We take care of children up to the age of 16, and young people up to the age of 18 (usually if they are still in full-time education).
Some 17 year olds prefer to stay on an adult ward rather than on a children’s ward. Paediatric staff will visit them daily, even if they are on an adult ward, to check their needs are being met, for example providing education and access to a computer.
A consultant paediatrician is resident on site at all times, and at any time of the day or night, there will always be junior doctors, children’s trained nurses and at least one consultant on the ward. The ward also has paediatric trained anaesthetists.
The children’s ward on the 6th floor has wonderful views across Hampstead Heath and the city. The 28-bedded ward has 12 single rooms, all with ensuite facilities, and reclining chairs so that one parent can stay overnight with their child if they wish.
We also have parent beds, mainly for the use of parents of very young babies and children with infectious illnesses or at high risk of infection. DVDs, console games and toys are available, and play and education staff organise other activities.
Hampstead Heath is a short stroll away and parents find it a welcome break from the hospital. Your child may be able to go with you – feeding the ducks is a great stress reliever!
Paediatric consultants are available 24 hours a day to offer telephone advice to GPs on acute paediatric problems.