Frequently Asked Questions

....About Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego

At Rady Children's, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality medical care through our outstanding physicians, nurses, and caregivers.  In addition, we are leaders in creating and maintaining a Healing Environment, making the hospital as peaceful and enjoyable as possible for patients and families.

As part of our quality care, and to protect our patients, we do have some limitations regarding community donations and visits.  Below are frequently asked questions and answers to help you.

Can my children or community group come to Rady Children's to visit and/or give out toys?  Because of infection control policies, and to ensure the privacy and security of patients, community groups or individuals are not permitted to meet with patients.

My children need to fulfill a community service assignment for their school.  Can they give seven hours of volunteer service to Rady Children's?  We do have a junior volunteer program for students 14 and older who have completed the ninth grade.  However, Juniors are required to make a 4-month commitment and are not placed in patient-care areas.  College and adult volunteers make a commitment of six to twelve months.  All volunteers must first go through an orientation, interview, TB test, fingerprinting, background check, and training before being placed.  Because of the steps involved, and to ensure the safety of our patients, Rady Children's cannot accommodate requests for short-term community service assignments.

Can my class send cards or crafts to the patients?  At the request of parents, cards from strangers are not distributed to patients, and strict fire codes prevent us from displaying community craft decorations in the hospital.  We do, however, accept craft kits that have materials and instructions for patients to make crafts.  (See Rady Children's Hospital Wish List).

Can I give out candy during the holiday season?  Medical and dietary restrictions, as well as security policy, prohibit the distribution of food or candy from sources other than Rady Children's Hospital.