Children's Unit
The Children's Unit is for all children aged 0-14 needing overnight care in the hospital.
Admission is either via the Emergency Department for acute illnesses or by appointment for a scheduled procedure.
Where to find us
Access to the unit is via the main entrance. The Children's Unit is in the Ngati Whakaue Building, near to the Chapel and Maternity Services.
This is a secure unit – on arrival please ring the doorbell and a staff member will let you in as soon as possible.
On arrival
On arrival to the unit, a nurse will visit you to assess your child.
You may need to wait to see a doctor so please tell the nurse if you need to leave.
Please bring for your child:
- Favourite toy
- Comb / hairbrush
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Pyjamas or nightgown if you wish your child to wear their own.
- Anything else which would make your child’s stay more comfortable eg: own pillow, duvet, etc.
Our team
A nurse is allocated to the care of your child each day.
They will make themselves known to you at the beginning of the shift.
Each child has a nursing assessment and care plan which will be developed in partnership with you and updated each shift.
If there is anything you wish to know about your child’s care, your nurse will be able to help you.
Your child will be reviewed daily by one of our consultant paediatricians or a member of their team.
Staying with your child
We have facilities for one parent or caregiver to room in with their child.
We will provide a fold-out bed with linen. This is folded up during the day to provide more room around your child’s bed.
Your child will receive all meals while in hospital.
Tea, coffee and bread/toast for caregivers rooming in is available 24 hours. If you are breastfeeding, please notify staff for meal availability.
Shower facilities are available for parents to use when rooming in, please ask the staff for access keys and towels, etc.
Parents/caregivers' facilities
There is a room for parents/caregivers to use which has tea and coffee making facilities (tea, coffee and Milo provided) and the use of a fridge, toaster, microwave and television. The lounge may be closed due to Covid-19 restrictions.
Please be mindful not to carry hot drinks around the unit.
Visitors
Please note that no visitors under 14 years should be left without adult supervision while visiting with your child.
Playroom
The Children’s Unit has a comprehensive Play Department with play specialists to cater for your child’s needs.
This operates Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm. Play activities are also available at your child’s bedside.
Our staff will do their best to keep child's time on the ward as relaxed and comfortable as they can.
Discharge/Leaving hospital
Please do not leave the unit with your child unless you have seen your nurse.
On discharge, your nurse will ensure that the relevant paperwork has been completed by the doctor.
This can include a discharge letter, prescription, outpatient appointment and information you will need for the ongoing care of your child at home.
We hope you and your child have a pleasant stay in the Children’s Unit.
Children's Outreach Nursing Service
Feedback
We welcome your feedback about child health services you have received. In the first instance, please ask to speak to the Clinical Nurse Manager in the Children’s Unit.
You may also write to:
Children’s Unit
Te Whatu Ora Lakes
Rotorua Hospital
Private Bag 3023
Rotorua Mail Centre
Rotorua 3046
Or email: feedback@lakesdhb.govt.nz