Located on the hospital's second floor, the Pediatric Unit is designed for children and adolescents ages newborn through 17 years. Nurses on the unit are specially trained to care for children and the unit is equipped with special child-sized equipment. We even have a child's wheelchair in which smaller children may ride to Diagnostic Imaging or other departments for special procedures.

Families are encouraged to stay with their children and participate in their care. In fact, we request that one parent or another responsible adult stay to give the child support and reassurance. For this reason, every room is equipped with a glider rocker and a recliner for the parent's comfort. Additionally, each room is equipped with a shower. And parents of children ages 12 and under are served a parent tray at each meal, courtesy of the hospital.

We realize that children are also anxious about the hospital experience. To put them at easem we offer Nintendo 64®, Play Station®, Gameboys®, a VCR and a variety of children's books are available. DVD players are also installed in each room.

Little ones are often fussy eaters, especially when they're sick. If your child doesn't care for the foods that are offered, you may request something he or she will eat. The nutrition and food services staff will make every effort to accommodate your requests.

During your child's stay, the hospital will provide all diapers, T-shirts, gowns, bottles and fluids for your child. If your child has a "special" bottle, blanket or toys, feel free to bring them from home to give your child something familiar in strange surroundings.

For more information about the Pediatric Unit at Western Baptist Hospital, call (270) 575-2400.

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