The hospitalisation of a child, whether planned or unplanned, is stressful for even the most well-organised and functional family.23 The significant adjustments to both parent and healthcare provider roles when a child is hospitalised may result in understandable levels of stress.24 A number of studies report that the stress levels of parents are reduced by being more informed and involved in caring for their children while in hospital.25 However, on the other hand involvement can lead, at least in the short term, to additional stress or anxiety for both the parents and child. Parents may feel that they