Frequently asked questions for parents and families visiting the children’s CRF
Why is it important to test medicines in young people?
- Off-label – where a dose, which is lower than the adult dose, is prescribed to young people
- Unlicensed – where the medicine is used outside the terms of the licence – e.g. by giving the medicine in a different form to how it was made. (A large tablet may be ground down into powder and mixed with a liquid, to make it easier to swallow).
In 2007, the European Union introduced a legal requirement to ensure that all medicines are researched, developed and authorised to meet the therapeutic needs of children. This requirement was introduced to ensure that suitable, authorised medicines are available for young people, and to reduce the chance of the medicine being ineffective or leading to side effects.
Where is the facility?
The facility is based in the Children’s CRF ward on the first floor at the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital. From the hospital’s main entrance take the lift to the first floor. The facility is on the left as you step out of the lift.
What is the average length of stay?
What is the average frequency of visits?
What should we bring for outpatient stays?
What should we bring for inpatient stays?
Can parents stay overnight?
Are private rooms available?
Do inpatients need to stay on the unit all of the time?
Are meals provided for parents and children?
What kind of entertainment facilities are available?
Can we bring our own electrical equipment?
Are children cared for by the same doctors and nurses that they regularly see for hospital appointments?
Does taking part in a research study affect normal care?
Are there any benefits to taking part in a research study?
What happens when studies are complete?
Is there reimbursement for travel expenses?
Are there parking facilities available?
Do parents need to accompany children throughout the study?
Can mobile phones be used on the unit?
Are there any restaurants/shops nearby?
What are the restaurant opening times?
Breakfast 7:30-11:00am
Lunch 12:00-2:00pm
Evening meal 5:00-7:00pm
Snack service 6:00-7:30pm and 9:00-10:00pm