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Clinical Psychology (Critical Care)

Frequently asked questions

Information for parents and carers

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Clinical Psychology (Critical Care) – PIAG 119 (202kB)

Emotional reactions to being on Critical Care

It is normal to feel a range of emotions when a child is admitted to Critical Care. Each person will cope differently and there is no ‘right way’ to respond. Parents describe feeling a rollercoaster of emotions, such as:

  • Shock
  • Frustration
  • Anger
  • Restlessness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Worry
  • Tearfulness
  • Numbness
  • Fear
  • Anxiety

Things you might notice

Critical Care wards can be stressful environments. You may notice staff responding to emergencies and hear unfamiliar noises such as beeping machines. Whilst the staff are used to these distractions, you may not be, so it is understandable if this takes a while to get used to.

These distractions may also be stressful for your child or visiting siblings. It can be helpful to explain what the noises and machines are, and don’t be afraid to ask staff if you are unsure yourself!

Remember to take breaks from the ward and remind yourself that its normal to feel stressed and uncomfortable in this environment.

How can you look after yourself and your family

We all deal with stressful situations differently. There is no right or wrong way of handling this time, but in order to be helpful to yourself and your child you need to look after yourself.

You may find some of following suggestions helpful

  • Seek comfort and support from family members and friends, and maintain communication with family outside the hospital
  • Remember to eat, sleep, and take breaks from the ward. Trained staff are there to look after your child when you are not there. This doesn’t mean you don’t care about your child. Taking breaks and relaxing will allow you to stay engaged and focused when you are back on the ward
  • Keep a journal of thoughts and questions. Not only will this help you notice and express how you are feeling, but it will allow you to record questions for medical staff, and may also help you keep on track of current medical plans
  • Ask the nurses about how you can help in your child’s daily care. This can help parents feel more engaged in the medical processes happening around them. Don’t be afraid to ask staff to repeat themselves if you do not understand what is happening.

Who are we / How can we help

It is not unusual to be struggling emotionally after a child has been admitted to Critical Care. Psychological support for children and their families is an important part of the care provided by Alder Hey.

Clinical Psychologists are trained to help people make sense of how they feel, think and act, and we use this knowledge to help children and families cope with the difficulties that arise from an admission to Critical Care.

We can help with a range of issues, emotional or behavioural, that you and your family may be facing during your time on Critical Care. You may like to just speak to us once, or continue to see us whilst your child is admitted, and this can be decided more definitely once we have met you.

Spending time with a Psychologist may help you to

  • Take time to express and explore your emotions in a safe and supportive environment
  • Explore ways to cope with emotions you may be experiencing
  • Support you to manage the effect that time on Critical Care may be having on your personal/family life
  • Help you think through decisions you may need to make about your child’s treatment

Who can access the support?

You can see a Psychologist on your own or as a couple, and depending on a child’s age and confidence; it is also possible for younger family members to see a Psychologist alone.
This support is available throughout your child’s admission to Critical Care.

Where will I be seen?

We can see you by the bedside or in a more confidential space if you would prefer.

How to contact us

There are two Psychologists. You may see them walking around on the ward. They are wearing normal clothes and have a badge on that says ‘Clinical Psychologist’.

You are welcome to approach them to say hello or introduce yourself; they can then find a time to come and meet you again properly to find out more about how they can help you.

Alternatively, you can speak to a member of staff on your ward, and ask them to refer you to Psychology for further support.

Confidentiality

All information that you share with us is treated confidentially unless we are worried that someone’s safety is at risk. We ask to share some information with other professionals involved with your child to help us provide the best care. However we will always check with you first before sharing that information.

This leaflet only gives general information. You must always discuss the individual examinations of your child with the appropriate member of staff. Do not rely on this leaflet alone for information about your child’s examinations.

Further information

You may find the following contacts helpful:

This leaflet only gives general information. You must always discuss the individual treatment of your child with the appropriate member of staff. Do not rely on this leaflet alone for information about your child’s treatment.


This information can be made available in other languages and formats if requested.

Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust

Alder Hey
Eaton Road
Liverpool
L12 2AP
0151 228 4811
Alder Hey website

PIAG: 119

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