At St. Christopher's Hospital for Children, we believe our patients' families are partners in the information-sharing and decision-making process regarding their child's care. St. Christopher's recognizes that families play a vital role in their child's healing process. Parents, legal guardians, and primary caregivers are essential members of the healthcare team in helping the patient overcome illness or injury. St. Christopher's is committed to working in collaboration with patients and their families to draw from their knowledge and strengths. We recognize that the great diversity of cultural characteristics is a source of strength for families and their caregivers.

Available at St. Christopher's to assist parents/families are:

• Twenty-four hour access to their child. Upon admission to the hospital, parents are issued two (2) clip-on parent passes. Sibling visits are welcomed.
• Each child's bed in the med-surg units (4th and 5th floors) has a parent bed next to it to provide support and comfort for the patient and parent.
• A Family Resource Center is located on the 4th floor behind the main elevators. It is equipped with a computer, printer, and fax machine for parent's use. There is also a wide range of printed materials for parents. It is open 24 hours/day.
• The Medical Library is located on the ground floor. The Medical Librarian will assist parents in learning more about their child's illness.
• Finding your way around a large hospital can be confusing. Our signs, our doorways, our Information Desk, and our friendly employees will help make your visit to St. Chris easier.
• Extended cafeteria hours are available at night.
• A bedside telephone is provided at no charge for local calls on the 4th and 5th floors.
• Parent Advisory Council
• Inpatient and Outpatient Support Groups are available to parents and families.
• Informal resource and support sessions are led by the Family Consultant.