Hospitals are big and are divided into lots of different parts. Each part looks after different kinds of patients.  Wellington Children's Hospital is part of Wellington Hospital.

At Wellington Children's Hospital we have 2 wards for children and teenagers to stay in.

One ward (Ward 19) is for children under 6 years old.  At sleep time at looks like an enchanted cave.

The other ward (Ward 18) is for children and teenagers over 6 years old.  

If you are over 16 years old you will go to one of the adult wards.

Day Ward

When you stay in the hospital for one day you are called a day patient (because you come in, get your treatment, stay for a short while to recover after your treatment and then go home all in one DAY.)

Emergency Department (ED)

Sometimes if you get sick very suddenly, you will be taken to our Emergency Department, This is a special area where people who get sick very suddenly are treated by a care team specially trained to look after people. Sometimes they will treat you and be able to send you home and sometimes you may have to stay in hospital a little longer.  From the Emergency Department you may get sent to the Children's Acute Assesment Unit.

Fresh Future Acute Assessment Unit

After being in the Emergency Department, you may be taken to our Fresh Future Acute Assessment Unit.  This place is just for children and teenagers.  Here the doctors and nurses will be able to look after you better and decide whether you need to stay in hospital or go home.

Out Patient Department (O.P.D.)

If you are coming to our Out Patient Department in the hospital your parents or caregivers will be asked to bring you on a certain day. This is like a visit to your own doctor. The doctor you will meet will know a lot about your illness and will talk to you and your parents about your treatment. Sometimes he/she may order some tests or arrange a date for you to get treatment in hospital.

Sometimes you will have to stay at the hospital for one or more nights.

What To Bring With You                     

When you are coming in to stay (not just for a visit to the doctor), you should bring your own night wear, dressing gown, slippers and toiletries (toothbrush, hairbrush, towel, facecloth, etc.) You can also bring a few favourite toys or books with you. We have toys in the hospital too but sometimes it is nice to bring some of your own from home.

Questions About You And What You Like

When you first come to the ward, the nurse will ask you lots of questions: your name, age, school, what you like to eat and drink, what you like to do during the day, when you go to bed and also who will be staying with you. This helps us to get to know you so that we can make sure your stay in hospital is as comfortable as possible.

When Can People Visit You?

Your Mum and Dad or Caregiver can visit and stay with you whenever possible, day or night. Your brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends are allowed to visit, but they should check with the nurses in charge first.

Can Your Parents Stay At Night?

Your Mum and Dad or Caregiver can also stay the night with you. Your parents can sleep beside your bed.  If your parent’s want to stay in the same room as you they may be able to sleep in a 'let down' bed that comes down from the wall or in a fold out chair bed. Their bed folds away in the morning so the floor can be cleaned. We also have special bathrooms and shower rooms for your parents if they are staying in the hospital at night.