If the child has any of the above symptoms or exposure to illnesses listed above or if the patient to be visited is immunosuppressed and the child has had an oral polio vaccine in the past six weeks, do not grant permission for a visit at the time. If none of the above is true, grant permission for the visit. Remind the parent this is for one visit and that similar discussions must occur prior to further visits. Remind the parent that hospitals are not childproof places and that the parent is responsible for the child's safety. The medical equipment and furniture look like toys to a child.
Young children find it hard to be still and quiet in a place with so much to explore.
Review the best times of day for the child to visit. Ask the parent to bring the child during regular visiting hours for a short period of 20-30 minutes.