Taking a 3 year old to the hospital

My MIL had open heart surgery on Monday, today she gets out of the critical care unit and my DD is allowed to see her. My husband says she looks good and doesn't have any tubes other than one IV line anymore, however prior to the surgery she lost about 45 pounds and is quite sickly looking in general. She has a nasty infection so my daughter would not be able to touch her, at all.

Would you take your 3 (almost 4) year old to see Grandma in this condition? I'm really hesitant. We explained that Grandma is sick, DD has had stitches in her finger before so we told her that Gma had stitches in her chest - it was the closest thing to understanding we could give her. I know it would be good for my MIL, but I'm just not 100% on board with it!

I would. Everyone has to learn things at some point. It could be a great learning experience for your daughter about how hospitals and doctors make you feel better too. And I'm sure she'd love to see her grandma.

I wouldn't with her having an infection, but that's just me

Quoting Fairy [God] Mother ®:" I wouldn't with her having an infection, but that's just me"

That is my main concern, too. In my head I know she won't likely get it, since I won't be letting her touch grandma other than hands - more so my MIL doesn't get hurt since her whole chest was just sliced open.

I would, as long as it is safe for the patient to be exposed to your child. Just keep it light and brief, and if anything happens while you're there, the first thing that needs to happen, is your daughter is removed from the room.

Keep it a good experience, as much as possible.

Quoting Fairy [God] Mother ®:" I wouldn't with her having an infection, but that's just me"

 

Well it doesn't matter now, MIL had a relapse and will remain in CCU for a few days more