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The Five Phases of Caring for a Vomiting Child
by Jessica Hart
Updated: June 8, 2023
Originally Published: June 8, 2023
Gastrointestinal viruses are quite prevalent among children, bringing with them a host of challenges for parents. When kids fall ill, it’s our role to offer comfort and reassurance. However, amidst our empathy, we also grapple with less-than-ideal feelings. Honestly, who wants to spend their evening catching vomit with their bare hands?
As parents, we must be prepared to embrace our sick little ones, barf-stained shirts and all, while attempting to stave off our own gag reflexes. In navigating these trying times, I have pinpointed five distinct stages of parenting a child who is unwell. These stages mirror the classic five stages of grief and serve as a reminder that you are not alone in this struggle.
1. Denial
My first instinct when my child throws up is to convince myself that he simply overindulged. Surely, this is just a fleeting episode, and soon it will be behind us. This reasoning comforts me into thinking that I won’t be next to fall ill. It’s merely a case of spit-up, albeit much more unpleasant since I can see remnants of last night’s dinner. But in my mind, there’s no issue at all.
2. Anger and Disgust
In this phase, my frustration isn’t directed at my poor child who is clearly suffering; rather, it’s aimed at the universe. Why is this happening now? (Of course, it’s always when you have plans, even if they’re just to tackle laundry.) This stage also brings forth a constant feeling of disgust, triggered by the odor emanating from my child. It’s overwhelming.
3. Bargaining
Perhaps if I draw a warm bath, it will soothe her stomach and stop the vomiting. If I plead with the universe or even the “Mom Fairy” for a moment of peace, I might just get it. I’ll vow to never raise my voice again and sing soothing lullabies endlessly, convinced that it will calm her insides. I’ll clean the house from top to bottom if it means avoiding another scene of stomach contents. Please, let this be the end!
4. Fear and Indecision
This is my new reality. This small being seems to be destined to vomit indefinitely, with the stench forever etched in my memory. Panic sets in—should I call a doctor? Is this just a common bug, or is there something more serious at play? The overwhelming question arises: is the smell really supposed to be this horrific?
5. Acceptance
If luck is on our side, things will eventually improve. After cleaning up what feels like a mountain of laundry and catching the last remnants of vomit, my child will likely be exhausted and ready to rest. In the morning, I’ll consider a visit to the doctor, but for now, I can clean up, shower, and maybe even enjoy a drink, aware that I might soon be facing the same fate.
I have been fortunate not to encounter a severe illness during my short journey as a mother. The most challenging situation I’ve faced thus far is dealing with a vomiting toddler who doesn’t fully understand what’s happening. While there certainly are greater trials ahead, in those dark, chaotic moments, I will remember these stages and seek the glimmer of hope at the end of the nauseating tunnel.
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Summary:
The article explores the emotional journey of parents dealing with a vomiting child, breaking it down into five stages: denial, anger, bargaining, fear, and acceptance. It emphasizes the common feelings of frustration and helplessness while providing a bit of humor and solidarity for parents in similar situations. It also directs readers to valuable resources on pregnancy and home insemination.
Keyphrase: Parenting a Sick Child
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