Hospital treatment can be distressing for children, who do not understand why they must wait for long periods and undergo painful procedures. In the UK it is taken for granted that children in hospital will have access to toys and play specialists, but this is a completely new concept in many low income countries, including Cameroon. Here, sick children appear sad, depressed and listless. HIV infected children, who must attend clinics frequently for blood tests etc, are particularly affected.

By creating a play area near the children's ward and providing toys, fun and interaction, the children are distracted from their surroundings and treatments. Simple toys like a ball and some bubbles can give delight to the children and reduce the trauma of distressing procedures and treatments. A dedicated play nurse can provide distraction and play for children who are ill in hospital and encourage attendance for chronically ill children who are outpatients.