Ambulance 912HAP 9252
Back to all symptoms and conditions
General health information

A child going to hospital

Good preparation matters when a child needs hospital care. Child-friendly explanations, a calm parent and clear arrangements help reduce stress. Watch for deterioration on the journey and after discharge. For a threat to life, call 912; for urgent assessment outside office hours, call HAP 9252.

In this article
Choose which sections to read

  • Good preparation often makes a hospital visit less stressful for child and parent.
  • Be honest about what you know, use simple words and avoid promises you cannot be sure of.
  • Bring important information: a medicine list, known allergies, a referral letter if available and something familiar for your child.
  • Parents provide observation and support as well as accompanying their child.
  • Discharge begins another part of care: understanding what is expected at home and when to seek help again.

Your response

Two anonymous questions

Did you find what you were looking for?

Do you now have a clearer idea of your next step?

Share article

Email

Do you need a healthcare provider after reading?

Search by type of care, organisation, name or district.

Further reading

Browse A–Z
C
Child abuseChild abuse may be physical, emotional or sexual, or involve neglect. Children do not always show clear signs. Safety comes first when there are concerns. Listen calmly, avoid leading questions and do not initiate a dangerous confrontation. Call 912 for a threat to life. For urgent medical assessment outside office hours, call HAP 9252. In other situations, a GP can help identify a safe next step the same day.
S
Suicidal thoughtsSuicidal thoughts can arise when pain, despair or problems seem unbearable. You do not have to carry this alone: tell someone you trust today and seek professional help. For immediate danger, call Ambulance 912; for urgent family-doctor care outside office hours, call HAP 9252.
I
In hospitalA hospital admission may be planned, for tests or surgery, or unexpected through emergency care. Good preparation helps: bring an up-to-date medication list, report allergies, have important documents and contact details readily available, and ask questions until you understand what is happening. During admission, staff focus on identification, medicines, infection prevention, movement and discharge planning. Practical rules on Curaçao vary by hospital and sometimes by ward, so always follow the instructions of the hospital you are attending.