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A Stroll Through Our Hematology/Oncology Clinic

Welcome! Upon arrival, you will sign in on the arrival sheet. Cynthia Davis, our receptionist, will assist your parent with any insurance issues, referrals, or co-payments. While parents attend to these things, there are books and toys for younger children to use, magazines for all ages, and an aquarium for everyone to enjoy.

It's check-in time! On each visit our medical technician Brenda Bateman will measure your height and weight. Then on you will go to an exam room where you will have your temperature and blood pressure checked.

It's check-up time! Your doctor will want to know how you have been feeling and if you have any questions about your illness or your treatment. Now is the time to let him or her know what's on your mind. Then your doctor will examine you to be sure you are doing well. If all is well, and you aren't scheduled for a treatment that day, home you go.

It's treatment time! If you need treatment today, chemotherapy, a blood or platelet transfusion, you will get it in the infusion area. Some treatments are short, while others may take most of the day.

Let's pass the time! While treatments are under way, you may want to get to know other patients, watch TV or a movie, play Nintendo, or use the laptop computer. Volunteers are here daily to play games or make crafts with you. Our child life specialists are also available to assist you in coping with procedures and treatments. We even have clown doctors strolling through the clinic now and again.

It's procedure time! There may be some days when you will need a bone marrow or spinal tap. You may receive medicines for pain and sedation just before the procedure. If so, you will be attached to a monitor so we can watch your heart rate and breathing closely. When your procedure is finished, and you are fully awake, you will be ready to go home.

It's isolation time. There may be times when you need to be kept away from other patients. For example, if you might have chicken pox or some other infection, keeping you isolated will protect other patients. If you have just had a bone marrow transplant or have low counts, keeping away from other patients will protect you. Or if you are just not feeling so great and need a quiet place to rest, the isolation room will be the best place to be.

It's time to go home! When your check up or treatment is complete, be sure to stop by Cynthia's desk with your paperwork. This will help her to schedule your next visit so it can go as quickly and smoothly as possible.

BUT What About . . .?

Who is my nurse?

We have pediatric nurse specialists in the clinic to care for you. One of these nurses will be your primary nurse. She will be the one to care for you and answer your questions and phone calls most of the time. We also have pediatric nurse practitioners checking on you in our clinic. All of the nurses are very experienced and work together as a team. You'll get to know them all.

What about blood tests?

There are times when you may need to go to the lab for blood work before coming to the clinic. Stopping at the lab first can help speed up your visit because your lab results will be available sooner. There may be other times when it will be fine to have your nurse draw your blood. You and your nurse will work together to decide which system is best for you at each visit.

What about food?

There may be times when you cannot eat before coming to clinic (if you're having a procedure or certain x-rays, for example). If you are allowed to eat during your visit, the clinic has snacks and drinks to offer. Because we are an outpatient clinic, we don't offer meals. Your parents may bring food to you from the hospital cafeteria or you may bring food from home.

Do I still come to the clinic if I am being admitted to the hospital?

If you need to be admitted to the hospital for your chemotherapy, you will start in the clinic. This gives your doctor a chance to see you and be certain you are doing well, your blood work and chemotherapy orders are accurate and your hydration is started early. All of these things help to streamline the admitting process for you.

May I visit other areas of the hospital or stay by myself while getting outpatient treatment?

We require patients to stay in the clinic with a parent or guardian during treatment. We are concerned for your safety and need you close by so your treatment can be accurately monitored.

What is behind that closed door in the clinic?

This is a quiet room where the medications are prepared. The nurses prepare all the medications used in the outpatient area. They are very experienced in doing this and use special techniques and checks to assure that all is correct.

Family Resource Room

Families visiting our outpatient clinic will find that the large room next to the waiting room has become a resource center. Feel free to use one of the computers to access our web site or other information on the internet. Also, browse through the many pamphlets and booklets in the new pamphlet racks - these are free and offer information and resources.