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Pediatric Hematology/Oncology
The Pediatric Oncology/Hematology Clinic serves children diagnosed with cancer or blood disorders. This program is the only one of its kind in eastern Oklahoma and treats more than 150 children each year.
We treat our patients in an environment of continuity and security. Each child has a specific chemotherapy nurse, familiar with the child's chemotherapy regimen, moods, likes and dislikes. You will also have easy access to the clinic staff for any questions or concerns.
The atmosphere at our clinic is one of sincere care and support. The close relationships patients and families establish with each other and the oncology staff is living proof of that special relationship.
The Clinic
The Oncology/Hematology Clinic is organized just a bit different from other doctor's offices you may have visited. The schedules for treatment and the frequent check-ups required for children with cancer cause the clinic to be a little bit more flexible.
The first thing to do when you come to the clinic is to check in at the receptionist desk. You and your child will then wait in the clinic playroom until you are called. The playroom is fully equipped with toys, games and a computer to entertain your child during this time.
Clinic Staff
A staff of professionals is available to you and your child to ensure the best medical outcome possible and make your time at the clinic and hospital as pleasant as possible.
The clinic receptionist has many responsibilities in the clinic including scheduling appointments and procedures, managing paperwork for clinic visits and handling telephone calls. When you call the clinic, please leave a message and it will be directed to the appropriate staff member in a timely manner.
The pediatric oncology nurses are specially trained to work with children and adolescents who have cancer. The nurses are also trained to deal with general health problems that may occur during therapy. Currently, there are two nurses in the clinic who work with children and adolescents on an outpatient basis and one nurse who works with those children and adolescents who are hospitalized. All of the nurses are available to teach you and your child about his/her illness and ways to recieve better care at home.
The pediatric oncology/hematology social worker is involved in every child's care plan from the very beginning. He/she will meet with you and your child in the hospital soon after your child has been diagnosed. He/she will work with you to help sort out the many social, family and financial needs that arise when a member of the family is diagnosed with cancer. The social worker is available to you and your family to provide ongoing help throughout your child's treatment. Please feel free to ask for any help that you may need during this time.
The pediatric oncologist/hematologist is a physician specially trained in the care of children and adolescents with cancer and blood disorders. The clinic currently has two pediatric hematologist/oncologists who will take care of your child's medical needs in the clinic and hospital. The doctors are available to address any questions or concerns you may.
Other hospital staff may also be involved in your child's care to ensure the best possible experience during this very difficult time. The hospital dietitian can help when your child is on a special diet or has problems eating. He/she can help you plan a diet based on your child's likes and dislikes, as well as advise you on how best to deal with eating problems related to treatment.
Hospital Stay
Many children require an admission to the hospital sometime during their course of treatment for cancer. The Children's Hospital at Saint Francis is located on the fifth floor of the hospital. The pediatric oncology nurse from the clinic, as well as the clinic doctors will continue as the treatment team for your child. The doctors will visit your child in the morning and will be happy to discuss and review your child's care plan and status with you.
The Children's Hospital has a child life specialist that plans fun activities for your child during his/her stay with us at Saint Francis. If your child feels well enough, he/she can spend time in the playroom located in The Children's Hospital. These activities can help your child feel more comfortable about being in the hospital.
The Ronald McDonald House is located within a block of Saint Francis Hospital and is a resource for families with seriously ill children who must be treated for longer periods of time. The Ronald McDonald House is available to families who live more than 25 miles from Tulsa. Your social worker can make arrangements for you.
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