A pediatric hospital is a facility that focuses on the care of children, often from before birth until the child is 21-years-old. These specialized hospitals provide treatment for both common and rare health issues affecting children and often act as research facilities. While standard hospitals are typically equipped to care for children, a pediatric hospital typically recognizes the difference between treating a child versus treating an adult and is, therefore, designed and staffed accordingly.
These types of hospitals are located all over the world, providing diagnoses, medical treatment and surgeries to children under the age of 18 or 21. In many cases, these facilities may provide care for children still in utero, as early as 15 weeks gestation. For children with lifelong or chronic illnesses, a pediatric hospital may provide care for the patient well into adulthood.
These facilities often treat issues such as chronic infections, respiratory illnesses and chronic health issues. In most cases, a pediatric hospital is uniquely equipped to perform nearly any type of surgery on even the youngest child, with many specializing in the care of premature infants. Some pediatric hospitals specialize in diseases unique to children or genetic disorders. Cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis and childhood leukemia are some of the specialties available at some children's hospitals.
Larger pediatric hospitals often include research facilities and programs. The hospitals may conduct clinical trials and are often the starting point for experimental treatments. Children with serious disorders or health issues are oftentimes referred to these facilities by their pediatricians for further treatment.
Studies have found that children often require a different style of care and treatment than an adult. Pediatric hospitals are constructed and staffed with this in mind. Doctors and nurses specialize in treating children and are knowledgeable in explaining what is going on to both a child and a worried parent. The medical staff is trained in pediatric care, which can be very different from adult care.
Outside of medical treatment, these facilities often provide patients with a child-friendly environment. Most pediatric hospitals are brightly-colored and include play areas, toys and activities for small patients. These facilities typically place more emphasize on the emotional support of the young patient than traditional hospitals may.
In general, a pediatric hospital is also usually more family-friendly than a traditional hospital. While standard hospitals often have little room for a parent to stay with his or her child, a pediatric hospital usually has extra room for parents built into the patient rooms. Cafeterias often offer space for family dining, and food is typically more child-friendly than at other facilities.
