Abstract

Chronic illness in a child can often change family dynamics and relationships for months or years, some-times even from birth. It is a cause of perpetual stress, which can be reduced by a careful and empathic approach to the child and his family during their hospital stay. Parents and healthcare professionals are jointly responsible for the child’s well-being, his body, mind and social needs. The Children’s Hospital in Ljubljana provides comprehensive tertiary evaluation and management for establishing the diagnosis and treatment of children.

Key words: child, family, hospital, cooperation.