The ICU at the Children's Hospital and Adolescent Health in Macapá, Brazil, has recently expanded the visiting hours for parents and guardians of hospitalized children. Previously, family members could only visit between 3:30 PM and 5:00 PM, but the new schedule allows them to remain by their child’s side from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM. This change aims to provide better emotional support for young patients and has been implemented gradually with adaptations in the hospital’s structure and team dynamics since December 2025.

The decision to extend visiting hours was made to foster a nurturing environment in the ICU, where parents or guardians can be present during crucial recovery periods. The pediatric ICU has been equipped with additional amenities, such as comfortable chairs placed next to each bed, ensuring that family members can stay close to the children while maintaining a supportive presence. The hospital's administration emphasizes that the ultimate goal is to eventually allow companions to stay with patients around the clock.

This initiative demonstrates a commitment to enhancing pediatric care by acknowledging the importance of family involvement in a child's recovery process. By enabling longer visitation hours, the hospital not only supports the emotional well-being of young patients but also strengthens the bond between them and their families, which is critical in a healthcare setting. Future developments could further reshape visitor policies based on ongoing assessments and feedback from staff and families alike.