Time Away Preparation Worksheets
Be Prepared
We have created these worksheets to help you think of things you may not have thought of, whether you are preparing for your first visit away from home or if you have already spent a night or two away and are planning a longer stay or a stay to an unfamiliar place. It may seem like a lot of questions, but don't let it make you nervous or give up. Keep in mind that some specific questions or even whole worksheets may not apply to your situation. If you get stuck, you may want to ask your parents, nurse or doctor for help.
Practice
Once you have filled out the worksheets you think you'll need, don't forget to practice. Before leaving home, practice taking your medicines or doing your procedures in a private place that is different from your usual place and ask your parents to help quiz you on what you would do in different situations. For example, how would you handle an emergency? What will you do if you feel uncomfortable? How will you ask others for help?
Relax and Have Fun!
| Worksheet | Covers questions such as: |
| Diagnosis Information |
How do you describe your health condition to others? Do you have a written health history summary? What health care records might you need? |
| Medicines | What types of medicines do you need and why? What happens if you don't take them? What should you do if you forget to take them? What will you do if you lose your medicines? |
| Daily Health Care Tasks and Treatments | What are your daily health care tasks and treatments? How will that change if you are away from home? If you need more supplies while away, where will you get them and how will you pay for them? |
| Safety and Warning Signs |
What safety issues may be in your new environment? Are there special things that you should avoid? What will you do if you don't feel well? What should others do if you don't feel well? |
| Emergencies |
Where would you go for urgent medical care? Do you know how to call the local emergency number? Will you have a cell phone available and will it work? How will you plan for transportation in an emergency? |
| Seeing Health Care Providers While Away |
Where would you go if you need to see a doctor? How would you get there? Are you comfortable giving your medical history to a new doctor? Do you need a letter from your parents giving you permission to be seen? |
| Insurance/Payment for Health Services | How will you pay if you need medical treatment? What does your insurance pay and not pay for? Does it work if are in another state or if you see a health care provider that is not your normal providers? |
| Key Contact Information |
Who are your important contacts (doctor, nurse, pharmacy, etc.)? Where will you carry your key contact information while you are away? |
| Support When Away |
What should you do if your are worried about your health condition and want to talk to someone? Who knows about your condition? |
You may also choose to download all of the worksheets at once. If you are having issues viewing a document, please visit the Help Downloading a Document page.