Things I Wish I Knew While at Levine Children’s Hospital
When you’re getting ready for your child’s stay at Levine Children’s Hospital, we know that you want to be as prepared as possible. You may even wonder if there’s anything that you’ve missed! Luckily for us, we have a list of things that previous and current patients, and their families wish they had known prior to their stay to share with you. Take a look at the list below!
I wish I knew my badge expired. For the safety and security of your child and all our patients and their families, your sticker badge will expire and must be renewed every day while your child is staying with us.
I wish I knew that it was always cold in the hospital. Hospitals need to stay cold for a few reasons, but this can make for an uncomfortable stay at times if you’re not prepared. Be sure to bring what you need to stay warm while your patient is cozy in bed. Our team is happy to also provide you with a blanket if needed.
I wish I knew the hours of the cafeteria. Our Market Cafe has many meal and snack options available throughout the day. It is open from 6:00 a.m. to 3 a.m. You can view all the food options available HERE.
I wish I knew that there were washing machines available. Washing machines are available on floor 4, 8, 10 and 11. If you need a washing machine but don’t have access to one off these floors, ask your care team for assistance.
I wish I knew more about when friends and family can visit. Visitation policies can differ slightly from unit to unit, depending on the patient’s health and the time of year. If you have concerns over visitors, be sure to follow up with your nurse. Additional information can be found on our Visitors Policy page.
I wish I knew that I’d have access to a social worker. A social worker can be an asset to help guide you through all the complicated medical information that you will need to work through. If you need help with any of these topics, or other supportive needs, request a social worker visit from your nurse.
I wish I knew about the Ronald McDonald house or Hospitality House. If you live outside of Mecklenburg County and need housing, the Ronald McDonald House and the Hospitality House may be an option for you and your family. Ask your social worker for more information on how to book a stay or review our lodging page.
I wish I knew more about what was available in the library. Our qualified medical librarian can assist you with information about your child’s illness, medications, treatments and procedures. The hospital library is more reliable than searching online for answers. In addition to reading materials being available, you also have access to a copier and fax machine if needed. The library is located on the 2nd floor of Levine Children's Hospital.
I wish I knew that a volunteer could sit with my child when I needed to have a shower or get something to eat. Volunteers are available and can be found throughout the day to help you however you need. They have access to items that you may need, such as toiletries or toys. They can also babysit for short periods while you take care of yourself. Your nurse can reach out to the volunteer office to check availability options.
I wish I knew how to recognize and praise our care team. WOW Cards and Daisy Award nominations are easy ways for you to recognize and praise the team. WOW cards can be found at and returned to the nurse’s station, the library and the main lobby desk.
I wish I knew when special events around the hospital were happening. Special events occur often, as well as regularly scheduled events, such as Bingo or movie night. Be sure to review calendars in the elevators and view channel 99 for special events occurring in Seacrest Studios.
I wish I knew how to access my child’s records online, or how to help my child over 13 set up an account for themselves. A parent or guardian of a pediatric patient can request access to and manage their child’s personal health information until the child reaches the age of 13 through their My Atrium account. This allows access to their medical records, scheduled appointments, medications, test results and more. Accounts can be set up easily at https://my.atriumhealth.org/MyAtriumHealth/Authentication/Login?
I wish I knew who my child’s care team is. We want you to understand all the roles and different teammates are that make up your child’s care team. The best way to keep track of who is who is to write down names and titles as they visit your child's room. You should be able to see pictures and names of your team within the MyAtrium app as well.
I wish I knew the various ways I could donate back to the hospital. If you would like more information on how to get involved in fundraising activities, events or make a charitable gift, please contact the Atrium Health Foundation at 704-355-4048 or GiveAtrium.org. For donations of new clothing, toys or entertainment services, please contact our Patient Experience Team at PatientExperienceLCH@atriumhealth.org
I wish I knew how to get in touch with my support groups. You can speak with your social worker for their help in pointing you in the right direction for a support group that best fits your needs.
I wish I knew there was a courtesy shuttle. If you need to get to your car or a different facility on the campus, we have a shuttle available for your convenience. Speak with one of our guest relations teammates in the driveway to connect with the shuttle.
I wish I knew who to reach out to when something isn’t right in the facility. If you have any questions or concerns about your stay, the care provided, or any issues with your room please have your nurse reach out to a member of the patient experience team or email them at PatientExperienceLCH@atriumhealth.org