Take a look at some of our frequently asked questions which may help you find an answer to a question you may have.
What safety measures are in place during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Our infection prevention measures mean our hospitals are safe to come into and if your child has an appointment we would encourage you to attend. However, if you, your child or someone in your household has symptoms, you have been contacted by NHS Test or Trace, or you have reason to believe you have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19 then please contact us to reschedule your appointment.
Face coverings must be worn in all parts of the hospital. For more information on our safety measures and visiting guidance please see the Coronavirus information page on the main Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust website or visit the COVID-19 guidance page here on the Alex site.
You can also watch our information video on how we are providing COVID safe care.
Who will look after my child?
Your appointment letter will tell you the name of the healthcare professional caring for your child. This could be a doctor, nurse specialist or a therapist. All staff wear an identity badge with the Trust logo and their name and job title so you know who they are.
Who can I talk to about how I am feeling?
The Trust’s Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care team provide support for support people of all faiths, and for those who do not have a particular religious belief.
Will my child go to school in hospital?
There are qualified teachers in the hospital to provide lessons and learning materials from across the national curriculum. Read about the Teaching service.
Who will look after my child during their stay in hospital?
A team of people will be involved in your child’s care, such as doctors, nurses, pharmacists, play specialists, therapists and radiographers. All staff wear an identity badge with their name and job title. A doctor will take your child’s medical history and examine them. In most cases, your child’s consultant has overall responsibility for their medical care.
Each ward has a ward manager who wears a navy blue uniform. There is also a matron for inpatient care who wears a purple uniform. Please do speak to them if you have a concern.
Will my child have any tests?
This depends on what is found during the visit. We will talk to you about what we think should be done and how this will help your child. Your child may need a blood test during the appointment. Play specialists can come along to distract your child during a test.
Who are the play specialists?
Play specialists are trained to prepare children for hospital admission and treatment through games and activities. They can also distract your child during certain treatments. If you would like your child to meet a play specialist before coming into hospital, please call the ward your child will be admitted to. Read more about the Play team.
Will there be students involved in my child's care?
We are a university trust responsible for training a wide range of health professionals. This means that students, supervised by qualified staff, may be involved in your child’s care. Please tell the doctor or nurse in charge if you do not wish students to be present during any part of your child’s treatment.
Is my child’s treatment confidential?
Every person working in the NHS has a legal duty to keep information about your child confidential. Your child’s GP will be informed of his/her progress and we may share information with other NHS hospitals involved in the care of your child, unless you ask us not to. We have a legal duty to hold certain information about your child which we will use to care for them and to help us manage and monitor the quality of our services. In some rare cases we have a legal obligation to notify professional bodies, such as social services, of details concerning certain children. You can read our privacy policy here.
Can I smoke in hospital?
Smoking is not permitted within any hospital building or on hospital grounds.
What provision is made for children with disabilities?
All pedestrian entrances are suitable for wheelchairs. There are accessible toilets around the hospital and a number of ward rooms have ensuites specially designed for children with disabilities.
What if I’m given a prescription for my child?
We may give you a supply of the medicines your child needs before they go home. You will need to pick these up from the Pharmacy department on the 3rd floor of the Thomas Kemp Tower. Please feel free to ask the pharmacy staff any questions you might have
