If you're spending the night (inpatient)

We encourage parents to stay with their children while they are hospitalized. Each patient room has accommodations for one parent to stay, including a chair or sofa that converts into a single bed. A private bath also is in each room. Food is available in our cafeteria, and you also may purchase a tray for yourself to be delivered with your child's meal.

For other family members, we recommend nearby hotels. Our Social Services department offers a reservation service known as "Suite Dreams" to help families with medical needs receive discounted rates at local hotels. For Suite Dreams assistance, call 1-800-955-ROOM. The Social Services department also can make referrals to the Ronald McDonald House for families of patients.

What to bring

• Your child's robe and slippers and favorite stuffed animal or toy (A favorite stuffed toy can serve as a "security blanket" and accompany your child into surgery, the recovery room or the intensive care unit)
• Extra clothing for you and your child
• Insurance information
• Important documents such as X-rays or other pertinent medical records
• Your child's immunization record
• List of all medications your child is taking (including prescription, over the counter and herbal)
• Photo ID of the parent or legal guardian escorting the child
• Any medications or other items parents will need while away from home

After-hours access

To keep campus safe and secure, some entrances will be locked after visiting hours. Parents and legal guardians may still enter through three areas on the Dallas campus:

• The Tower D Lobby, which can be accessed from Green Park and the main valet entrance

• The Blue Park Skybridge entrance

• The Emergency Department entrance

If families, friends or guests plan to visit during regular visiting hours of 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., more information can be found here.