Women and Children’s Health Program at The Moncton Hospital

Prenatal Care

Learning about pregnancy, labour, delivery and childbirth begins before your hospital stay. You can help prepare yourself for childbirth and parenting by attending prenatal classes.

Prenatal Nutrition

Eating healthy is important, no matter the stage of your pregnancy. Sobeys Dietitians can help you plan the best possible nutrition for yourself and your baby! ‘Eating Well for a Healthy Pregnancy’ is a FREE 1.5 hour session offered monthly at Sobeys Elmwood Drive. We answer questions such as: Can I eat for two? How much weight should I gain? Should I avoid eating certain foods? Contact your Sobeys Dietitian at 854-0993 for more information.

Communication Begins at Birth

Communication Begins at Birth is a prenatal information session for parents-to-be on the development of early communication and strategies for stimulating early language skills.  During the two hour talk, we go over the developmental milestones of children from birth to two-years-old and share what you can do to promote language development of your baby. We also do two activities where we rate toys across five parameters (including safety, cost and appropriateness) and practice building vocabulary for your child.

Prenatal Breastfeeding Class

• Developed by Horizon’s Public Health team in Miramichi, this class offers breastfeeding advice for those who cannot attend a face-to-face session.

We recognize moms and dads are busy.

To help, we’ve recorded one our Labour and Delivery Prenatal Classes so you can watch it from the comfort of your own home, at your own convenience.

Videos

Community organizations also offer pre- and postnatal classes.

The Family Resource Centre offers programs that include information on prenatal care and nutrition; there are also opportunities for meeting other pregnant women. Topics include: healthy pregnancy, healthy eating during pregnancy, basic labour and birth, breastfeeding and becoming a parent.

Prenatal Appointments

It is important that you are seen regularly by your health care provider as your pregnancy progresses, so that they can track the development of your baby.

Create a Birth Plan

To prepare for your upcoming childbirth, sometimes it is helpful to write down what your expectations are for your care. We encourage you to discuss these issues with your health care provider during your prenatal visits.  It is also a good idea to write your preferences down so that you can clearly communicate them with the health care team when you arrive at the hospital. Some issues may be:

• General hopes, concerns, or anxieties about the experience of birth
• Labour and delivery concerns including who will be on your care team and your preferences for pain control
• Newborn care and feeding

Feeding Your Baby

Deciding how you are going to feed your baby is a very important decision and there are a lot of things to consider.

• Learn the facts about breastfeeding and infant formula and introducing solids.
• Discuss your thoughts, feelings, concerns and questions with your family and your health care provider.

Decide what’s right for you and your family.  Whatever you decide, your health care providers will give you the information and support you need.

If you made an informed decision to feed your baby with formula, we’ll show you how to choose a formula and how to prepare it.

• Breastfeeding Your Baby in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NNICU)
• Cue-Based Feeding – A Step-By-Step Approach

Emotional Adjustments

Having a new baby is an exciting time but, sometimes life with a new baby is not always what you expect. Most women will go through a period of the ‘baby blues’ as they adjust to their new role and their body adjusts to the hormonal changes of the postpartum period. This is not the same as postpartum depression and is a common and completely normal part of new parenthood. You may experience moodiness, irritability, a feeling of isolation, headaches and sleeplessness. If you feel that you can’t cope, or are overwhelmed, ask your health care provider for help.

Postpartum depression is more serious. It is a condition that can occur any time after delivery but typically appears in the first few weeks after birth. Symptoms can include feelings of hopelessness, extreme sadness and frustration. You may feel overwhelmed and have low self-esteem, reduced libido and problems sleeping or eating. You could experience increased anxiety or panic attacks and have little interest in your baby.  If you are feeling this way, it is important that you receive help, so notify your caregiver as soon as possible. They will connect you with support and counselling services.

Tele-Care is a free, confidential, health advice and information line. Dial 811 for access to bilingual, registered nurses, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In an emergency, call 911 or visit the local emergency department. Click here for more information

Maternal Fetal Medicine Clinic

There are some complications that can arise during pregnancy that will be out of your control. If your primary care provider determines that your pregnancy is high-risk, you will be referred to the Maternal Fetal Medicine Clinic located in Suite 315 of the Professional Arts Building (100 Arden St., Moncton).

Discharge and Breast Feeding Clinics

Upon discharge, you will be given an appointment to the Discharge Clinic which is located within the Maternal Newborn Unit. It is very important that you and your baby are seen 48-72 hours after you leave the hospital. At the discharge clinic visit, your baby will receive a full assessment including weight as well as being checked to make sure they are feeding well and having regular voids and stools (pees and poops). During this visit you will also be checked to make sure you are healing well.  This is a great time to ask any questions that may have arisen since your discharge from hospital.

Visits to the Breastfeeding Clinic are scheduled at the time of discharge clinic visit depending on how well your baby is feeding, voiding, and stooling. Many families find a visit to the Breast Feeding Clinic (which is staffed by nurses with Lactation Consultant certification) helpful and supportive.

Family Planning Clinic

The Family Planning Clinic (FPC) offers information on and access  to a range of services associated with unplanned pregnancy and contraception, including access to safe, discreet and respectful options to terminate an unplanned and unwanted pregnancy.

The FPC is accessible to those with a valid health care card with or without a doctor referral requiring these services. Service fees are covered under any valid provincial health care card, although clients will still have to pay for any prescriptions they are given.

Making a decision to terminate a pregnancy can be a very difficult one and each situation is different. The decision to have an abortion (or not) is extremely personal. It is important for you to have reliable and accurate information, so you can make the choice that is right for you. When your appointment has been booked in the clinic, you’ll be offered the opportunity to meet with a social worker who can provide you with counselling. You don’t have to meet with the social worker, but the option is available to you if you would like to talk to someone about your feelings and your decision.

If you would like more information we encourage you to visit the Canadian Women’s Health Network to read more.

As a new or expectant parent, we understand that you may have many questions. We hope the frequently asked questions below will be of help. If you have specific questions not answered below, speak to your primary care provider.

My baby is breech, what could happen?

Occassionally the baby can be turned manually by an obstetrician with assistance using  pressure on your abdomen. The doctor will discuss the procedure and the risks with you. If you require further information, please ask your health care provider.

What happens when I have an underlying health issue?

There are high-risk obstetricians available at TMH who specialize in managing your care during pregnancy. They will discuss any questions or concerns you may have and monitor your baby’s well-being during your pregnancy. Your obstetrician will refer you if required.

What if my baby is sick or needs extra care?

Babies can be born prematurely, with a serious health condition or can become ill after birth. The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NNICU) is equipped to deal with babies who need highly specialized care. When you are there, you and the NNICU team will all work towards the same goal: to get your baby home. The NNICU is located on the same floor as the postpartum unit which makes it easily accessible for you to visit your baby frequently. If you would like to learn more about the NNICU, click here.

Do I need a birthing plan?

A birthing plan is an excellent way to clarify your expectations when preparing for childbirth. It is important to relate your issues and concerns, hopes or anxieties about the experience of birth to your doctor or midwife. You may wish to discuss other issues such as pain control, support persons in labour, infant care and handling, intravenous, labour positions and episiotomy. You may discuss any of these issues at your prenatal visits. Your care team will discuss your wishes for your plan of care and provide you with all the information to maintain a supportive labour and birth.

What is an Induction?

Induction is a form of using artificial means to get your labour started. This may be done by using drugs or by rupturing the membranes. Your health care provider will discuss with you your eligibility for outpatient induction.

How often should I bathe my baby?

Newborns do not generally get ‘dirty’ as long as they are cleaned with each diaper change. Two to three baths a week is appropriate, and provides stimulation for your baby. These baths will also go a long way towards making you feel more comfortable in handling your baby. As they get older and start to eat solid foods you will find that they probably need a bath every day.

For more information on bathing your newborn, refer to the Loving Care books.

Where can I get help if I feel I am experiencing postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression is a serious psychiatric condition that requires immediate attention. You may have feelings of hopelessness, guilt, anxiety, panic attacks, little interest in your baby or suicidal thoughts. First, notify your caregiver right away. They will provide you with care and counselling. For urgent care, please visit TMH’s Emergency Department or call Tele-Care 811. For more information please refer to the Canadian Association of Mental Health.

We hope the information on our website has been helpful to you, but if you are looking for more information, there are many other valuable resources you can use.

• COVID-19 During Pregnancy
• Your Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy
• Prenatal Breastfeeding Class
• Pregnancy, childbirth and caring for newborns: advice for mothers (COVID-19) (Health Canada)
• Public Health NB
• MotherRisk – Sick Kids
• The MotHERS Program
• Sexuality and Contraception
• Maritime Newborn Screening Program
• Infant Hearing Program
• Caring for Kids
• Postpartum Mood Disorder
• National Abortion Federation
• Sexuality and You
• Canadian Women’s Health Network
• Pregnancy and Understanding Your Sexual Health
• About Kids Health – Chemotherapy Drug Information Sheets
• Kent Family Resource Centre (KFRC)
• Early Childhood Family Resource Centre of Westmorland-Albert
• Early Childhood Family Resource Centre of Westmorland-Albert Inc. – Family Directory
• New Brunswick Association of Family Resource Centres
• PregnancyInfo.ca – The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada
• Health Canada – Food and product recalls and safety alerts

The entry to the pediatric unit is visible to the left of the information desk when using the MacBeath Avenue entrance, on the first floor of The Moncton Hospital.

Our Pediatric Unit is a secured unit. We ask you to report to the nursing station upon entering. Staff are always available to help assist you.

Please ensure that you wash your hands upon entry and exit to Pediatrics. There is a hand sanitizer dispenser located at the entry to the unit as well as the entrance to individual patient rooms.

What happens when I arrive?

Once your child is admitted to the hospital, you will be oriented to the department so that you and your child are comfortable with your surroundings.

During the admission process, the following activities will occur: height, weight, physical exam, patient history, and an Identification Bracelet (ID) will be placed on your child’s wrist or ankle.

​During your stay, you may meet our child life specialist. They have expertise in child development and are here to help your child adjust to their illness or hospital stay.

Your child’s age will determine if they are admitted to a crib or a bed.

What to bring

Here are a few of the things you may want to bring to the hospital with you:

• Toiletries – Please bring items such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo and body wash.
• Pillow and blanket – Families may stay in their child’s room in Pediatrics.
• Favourite toys or blankets – These items can make your child feel more comfortable in this new environment.
• Footwear – Items such as nonskid slippers or shoes can come in handy if your child is feeling well enough to get up and move around.
• Comfortable clothing – This is something to keep in mind for both you and your child.
• Medical aids – If your child needs eyeglasses, hearing aids, braces, crutches, etc., please bring them with you.

What items are available on Paediatrics

• Breast pumps are available for use during your stay if you need them.
• There is a complimentary television and Wi-Fi in all rooms.
• The unit has a kitchenette stocked with items such as coffee, tea, milk, crackers, cookies, bread, ice cream and popsicles.
• A washer and a dryer are available upon request.

What does the Pediatric Care unit look like?

Multidisciplinary Team

• Pediatrician – a doctor specializing in the care of children
• Ophthalmologist – for eye problems
• Endocrinologist – for glands and hormone problems
• Neurologist – for brain and nervous system problems
• Hematologist – for blood problems
• Medical Consultants – Many of these specialists are located at the IWK and are accessed as needed:
  • Cardiologist – for heart problems
  • Nephrologist – for kidney (urine) problems
  • Gastroenterologist – for intestinal problems and nutrition
  • Orthopedic Surgeon – for bone and muscle problems
• Nursing
  • Nursing – performs and coordinates your child’s daily care
  • Clinical Lead – experienced RN who leads the nursing shift responsible for daily coordination of unit activities. The clinical lead is also responsible for orientation and supports ongoing education/clinical competencies of all nursing staff
• Nursing Manager – supervises all registered nurses, team leaders, unit clerks and service assistants
• Unit Clerk – provides administrative support for the multidisciplinary team; the unit clerk will register day patients, help orientate parents and give general information about the paediatric unit
• Ward Aide – is responsible for ensuring all unit patient care supplies are available for use
• Lactation Consultant – available to assist with breastfeeding and pumping
• Social Worker – available for parental support and can help with family concerns
• Registered Respiratory Therapist – health care professionals who help people with their breathing
• Pharmacist – provides consultative services to the medical team in selecting and ordering medications
• Spiritual Care – available for spiritual and religious care, and emotional support (religious affiliation not required)
• Clinical Nutrition – provides nutritional consultation to the medical team and patients
• Physiotherapy – assists in early detection of health problems and uses a wide variety of modalities to treat disorders in the paediatric population
• Occupational Therapy – focuses on helping children develop the skills they need to grow into functional, independent adults
• Psychology- provides psychological treatment and assessment services to children and their families

During your child’s hospital stay, a doctor will see your child on a daily basis. Other specialties who have been consulted will see your child according to their plan of care. Parents are encouraged to participate and ask questions about your child’s care. In case of any emergency after hours, there is always a pediatrician on call and available.

Pediatric Close Observation Area

The Pediatric Close Observation Area is located on the paediatric inpatient unit providing one-on-one care for infants, children and teens that require close observation. Children admitted to this observation area will be placed on cardiac-respiratory monitoring and have more frequent assessments.

Depending on the type of care required your child may temporarily receive care in the adult specialty Intensive Care Unit or Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NNICU). If it is necessary for your child to be transferred to the IWK Health Centre, the paediatric care team will provide information and support as needed.

Families and visitors with children in the Paediatric Program will be advised of our infection control policies when you visit.

Hand Washing – Preventing Infections

Proper hand washing with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer or soap and water is the single most important way to prevent the spread of infections. Protect your child from the spread of germs by washing your hands when you enter and exit your child’s room.

Always ask your health care provider if they have washed their hands before providing your child’s care. Hand hygiene is also extremely important when you go to the common areas of the unit such as the kitchen and family room. Please use the hand sanitizers located throughout the hospital.

NOTE: If your child is on isolation precautions, this means they cannot leave their room to visit the activity/playroom or other common areas on the nursing unit (including walking in the hallways). Make sure you, your family members, and visitors clean their hands often and before entering and leaving your child’s room.

Ask friends and family who have colds or other infectious illnesses (flu, diarrhea, vomiting, fever, rash, etc.) not to visit your child in the hospital.

• Cold sores are a virus. If you or your family are experiencing symptoms; it is important that a mask is worn over the affected area.
• Parents, it’s okay to take a sick day!

When you are not feeling well it may be better to stay at home. Ask your family and friends to do the same. You can always call us for advice in your decision to come in or stay home.

While in hospital, your child’s safety is a priority. Keep staff informed of any changes you notice.

It is important to:

• Ask questions about any part of your child’s care (such as your diagnosis and treatment plan).
• Trust your feelings and report anything you think may be wrong.
• Know who to contact to get test results (such as blood work), and ask if you have questions after your visit.
• Know and tell us what medications(s) you take at home.
• Know and tell us about any allergies you/your child have.
• Tell us if you have been in hospital or had surgery before.

Other things you should know:

• We promote ascent-free environment. We ask you and your family and visitors not to use scented products. These include perfume, cologne, aftershave, hygiene products, and scented soaps/detergents.
• If you need help finding your way around the hospital, ask our unit staff, Information Help Desk, or Security Desk staff. There is also signage on the walls to assist you.

Preventing Abduction

It is important for families to be aware of security procedures and what can be done to prevent child abduction. Every hospital has procedures and equipment in place to keep your child safe.

Staff will review security procedures on admission.

ALERT staff immediately if you are curious or concerned about people entering your room, or those inquiring about your child, even if they are wearing a hospital uniform.

Staff Identification

All Horizon staff must wear a Horizon-issued photo identification (ID) badge in a clearly visible location. You have the right to see the Horizon photo ID badge of your health care providers – never allow your child to be taken anywhere by someone without ID. Any time your child must leave their room for tests or procedures, you may accompany your child.

Patients under 16 years of age are not permitted to leave the unit, or go out on an approved leave or pass unless accompanied by a designated adult. If you are taking your child off the unit, please inform the nursing staff as we keep a record for parents or caregivers to sign. This is important in case we need to locate your child for any reason.

ASK us to introduce ourselves.

Patient Identification

On admission to the hospital, an identification (ID) band will be placed on your child. In addition to your child’s name and ID number, the identification band(s) will identify any allergies (red) or risk for falls (yellow). For your child’s safety, your child must wear these identification bands throughout their entire stay. It is important your health care provider identifies your child by name and looks at the identification band before: giving any medication and/or performing any treatment, intervention or procedure. If the identification band(s) come off, please inform your health care provider as soon as possible to have it replaced.

ASK us to check your child’s hospital identification band.

If you don’t have it, ask us for one. It is important to wear it.

Allergies

It is very important to let us know if your child has any allergies to medications, food, environment and/or latex. If your child has allergies, ensure a red identification band is placed on your child during admission. Inform all staff caring for your child of any allergies.

NOTE: Due to the risks associated with latex allergies, rubber balloons are not permitted in the hospital.

TELL us about your child’s allergies.

Medication Safety

Know what medications your child is taking and why they are taking them. Make sure you know the name, amount, and how many times a day it is taken. A list of current home medications is available from your pharmacy on request. Remember to include any over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol®), ibuprofen (Advil®), vitamins, herbal products, and/or supplements.

During your hospital visit make sure:

• Your health care provider correctly identifies your child before giving any medication.
• You tell your health care provider of any allergies or reactions to medications your child has had in the past.
• Your health care provider tells you what medication your child is being given and why.
• You ask questions if the medication looks different from what was taken at home or from what was given previously in the hospital.
• You ask for and keep a list of all the medications your child is to be taking once discharged from the hospital and keep this list with you.
• You talk to your child’s health care provider about any questions or concerns with medications (how to know if it is working, how long your child will be taking it, and any side effects).

Finally, inform your health care provider about any medications you have brought with you to the hospital; personal medication belonging to you/your child should never be kept at your child’s bedside.

ASK us about your child’s medicine during your visit and before you go home. Make sure you understand how to take it, when to take it, and any side effects to expect. Make sure staff explains any changes made to your child’s medicine.

Play Safe

Play is an important part of your child’s adaptation to hospital and recovery. In addition to a playroom which is available throughout the day, toys are also available for you to bring back to your child’s room. All toys must be washed between patient uses. Therefore, please do NOT return toys to the playroom. Once used, these toys are to remain in your child’s room until discharge, or returned to the soiled utility room where they will be washed/disinfected prior to reuse.

NOTE: In common waiting areas we encourage the following safety tips:

• Ensure children are supervised at all times.
• Check with staff before bringing in food or drinks.
• Always keep the doorways clear.
• Ensure your electronic devices/toys are charged for use to avoid tripping hazards of cords.

ASK to speak to a child life specialist, where available. Child life specialists are trained professionals with expertise in helping children and their families cope with the stress and uncertainty of illness, injury and treatment. Therapeutic play, preparation and education can reduce fear, anxiety and pain for children.

Internet Safety

Please be aware if your child is accessing the free Wi-Fi available through the hospital and read the terms of agreement. Monitor your child’s internet use as the hospital is not able to guarantee the safety of all sites.

Safety Tips

• Review the social networking sites your child visits and ensure they do not contain identifying information (photos, profile, online diary, etc.).
• Be aware and involved in what sites your child is accessing including their activities and interaction (example: gaming sites with chat options).
• Healthy sleep patterns are important for recovery. Be mindful of screen time.

Privacy and Confidentiality

Thank you for protecting the privacy of others. Please ask permission before:

• Taking pictures or videos.
• Posting information about patients, families and staff on social networks.
• Sharing information from your visit.

Preventing Falls

Horizon uses the Humpty Dumpty Falls Prevention Program™ to assess and identify children at risk for falls. Children at a high risk for falls will be identified with a yellow bracelet and a Humpty Dumpty sign at their bedside. Always make sure the call bell is within reach so you or your child can get help. Some medications can make your child sleepy or dizzy which can cause your child to be unsteady on his/her feet. It is important to know how medications can affect your child so you can be aware of the risk of falls.

To decrease the risk of falls make sure to:

• Never leave your child unsupervised in a highchair or infant swing.
• Ask for help to assist your child to sit or stand, or up or to the bathroom if needed.
• Use nonskid footwear that fits.
• Accompany your child to the bathroom when medical equipment is attached, and also when getting up for the first time after surgery.

You will be provided with the Humpty Dumpty Falls Prevention Program™ Preventing falls, enhancing patient safety education handout to further inform you on the best ways to help prevent falls. Please feel free to discuss this with the nursing staff if you have any questions or concerns.

ASK us about our Humpty Dumpty Falls Prevention Program™

Preventing Pressure Sores/Skin Breakdown

Pressure ulcers are sores that are caused by constant pressure on your child’s skin. Horizon uses Braden Scale and Braden Q Scale to assess and identify children at risk of pressure sores and skin breakdown. Your child’s nurse will assess your child’s risk on admission, then ongoing throughout their hospital stay. From these assessments, if your child is considered at any time to be at moderate or high risk of developing pressure sores or skin breakdown, your child’s nurse will provide you and your child with recommendations for additional precautions and interventions.

Risk factors for developing pressure ulcers include:

• Decreased activity/mobility – children who stay in a bed, chair or wheelchair for long periods of time or their condition makes it difficult for them to change position without help.
• Moisture left on the skin from sweating or unclean diapers.
• Constant pressure from equipment such as an oxygen mask, splint, IV or feeding tubing.
• Although poor nutrition does not cause pressure ulcers it does place a person at higher risk of developing pressure ulcers.

Steps to prevent pressure ulcers include:

• Walk and change of position often unless the doctor tells you not to.
• Avoid repeatedly pulling or rubbing skin against a surface ex. use a sheet to move a child if sliding down in bed.
• Check skin for redness and report any areas of concern.
• Use a soft cloth and be gentle when bathing. Avoid rubbing or massaging a reddened area.
• Keep skin dry. Quickly clean any moisture from sweat or urine. Frequent diaper and linen changes as needed.
• Eat a healthy balanced diet. Ask to talk to a dietitian if at risk for pressure ulcers and not eating well.

TELL us if you notice any new areas where redness and skin breakdown may be a concern.

Tubing, Lines and Cords Safety

Infants and children can be very active. Often your child will have an intravenous (IV) or other equipment in place while in the hospital.

Your child’s nurse will assess your child for risk of entanglement on admission, then ongoing throughout their hospital stay. From these assessments, if your child is considered at risk of entanglement at any time, your child’s nurse will provide you and your child with recommendations for additional precautions and interventions.

It is important to let staff know if you will not be in the room with your child, or if you have seen your child tangled in any lines or tubing.

Safety tips to prevent entanglement and strangulation include:

• Clear unnecessary items from the child’s bed.
• Keep bed adjusted to prevent access to cords.
• Netting or clothing may be used to secure tubings.
• Secure oxygen tubing under the chin rather than behind the neck.
• Never put anything (necklaces, soothers, etc.) around your child’s neck.

TELL us if you have to leave your child alone for an extended period.

Bed Safety and Safe Sleep

Children less than three years of age are safer in a crib even though they may not be in one at home. Crib and bedside rails must be locked in the full “up”position at all times. Never leave a crib or bed with side rails down or in the middle position unless someone is standing directly at the bedside. Even leaving for a moment to go to the bathroom while your child is sleeping and the rails are down could lead to a fall.

• The height of the bed/crib should remain in the lowest position to prevent falls.
• Do not have an infant/child sleep in the cot/bed with you.
• All infants/children placed in cribs will be assessed to determine whether a crib dome is needed.
• All toys/food should be removed from the crib/bed when your child is sleeping.
• Do not leave strings, wires, cords, necklaces, beads, etc. in the crib.
• Reposition your child when the arm/leg is ‘sticking out’ between crib rails to place the limb within the crib.

Preventing Entrapment

Safety tips to prevent entrapment include:

• Use a seat belt with equipment as babies can slide down and trap their heads.
• Place children in developmentally appropriate beds.
• Mattresses should fit snugly in cribs and beds.
• Keep beds in lowest position with brakes on.

Tubs, Baths and Showers Safety

• Ensure small children are constantly supervised in the tub/shower.
• Be sure you can reach the call bell at all times.
• Make sure the water temperature is not too hot before placing your child in the tub/shower.
• It is important to know how your child may be affected by their medication before taking a bath or shower.
• Empty the tub as soon as your child finishes bathing; a tub of water must never be left unattended.

Access to the unit

Pediatrics is a secured unit; during daytime hours all parents and visitors must stop at the nursing station before going to the child’s room. After hours, the main doors to the pediatric unit are locked and you must ring before entering. The intercom is mounted on the wall outside the entrance to the unit and it automatically rings directly into the nursing station.

Basic guidelines to support safe and respectful spaces

• The paediatric unit is a safe and respectful environment; we expect all patients, family, staff, and visitors to interact and treat each other in a respectful manner. Any issues should be immediately reported to the Nurse in Charge.
• Disrespectful behaviour will not be tolerated. If necessary, individuals acting inappropriately may be asked to leave the hospital and the police contacted. The Security office is located behind the main floor information desk. Security personnel are on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Rights and Responsibilities

Please click here to learn more about Horizon’s Patient Representative Services.

Horizon’s Patient Representative Services provides information, support, encouragement and assistance to patients, families and staff in all our facilities during a patient’s health care experience.

This service reflects our commitment to patient and family centred care, and enables us to be more responsive to patients’ concerns and questions.

We aim to let families know the discharge date as far in advance as possible. Children are discharged from inpatient care when:

• it is mutually agreed that the goals of the admission are met;
• the admission diagnosis or problem is medically stable, and/or the situation is manageable at home, with or without support services;
• appropriate community support and follow-up care are arranged; and
• the attending or covering doctor has written the discharge order.

Most patients will have their discharge order signed in the morning of the discharge date. In normal circumstances, children will only be released from hospital into the care of the parents(s), legal guardian, or a legally recognized substitute decision maker.

When the parent(s), guardian or a substitute decision maker needs to make alternate arrangements for a child’s discharge they will:

• ensure that the alternate person is a responsible adult; and
• provide written permission/consent to allow the person to take responsibility for the child.

Any person(s) taking responsibility for the child must show proper identification to appropriate staff.

Before leaning the hospital, make sure you have:

• Information on how to give any treatment or medication your child may need;
• A prescription for any needed medication;
• Written instructions about treatment or medication, if necessary; and
• Discussed services and referrals to community agencies that can assist you with care and supplies at home

Thank you for your interest in providing a donation to our pediatric patients and their families. Your generous gift can go a long way towards brightening many children’s and family’s hospital visit.

This section provides suggestions for items that you or your organization may be interested in donating to our pediatric department, as well as guidelines for making your donation.

Donations may be made directly through Friends of The Moncton Hospital Foundation. Please direct your donation to Child Life Services.

Due to privacy and infection control, we cannot allow personal delivery of gifts and donations directly to patients. Therefore, all other in-kind donations can be dropped off directly at our pediatric unit on the first floor or through our Community Engagement Coordinator at the Friends Office, located in the lobby of the hospital’s main entrance.

Please note:
We make every effort to maximize the donations we receive from our donors. Occasionally, we receive items that may not be appropriate for use in the hospital or pose potential health concerns for our patients. These toys are shared with other children’s charities throughout the Greater Moncton area.

1. Soiled or broken used toys and stuffed animals will not be accepted.
2. Our patient population includes many infants and toddlers. Please avoid toys that have sharp pieces or small pieces that could pose a choking hazard.

For a list of suggested donation items, please see our Pediatric Child Life Holiday Wish List.

• IWK Health Centre – Getting Here and Around
• 10 Things to do While You’re Waiting (IWK Health Centre)
• 10 Ways to Help Your Child Through Challenging Procedures (Alberta Health Services)
• Skip: Solutions for Kids in Pain
• Beads of Courage
• Kids’ Health Links Foundation – Upopolis
• Toy Safety (Government of Canada)
• Kent Family Resource Centre (KFRC)
• Early Childhood Family Resource Centre of Westmorland-Albert