There are many ways to make an upcoming surgery for your child easier.

Some helpful hints include:
  • Answer your child's questions accurately
  • Listen to your child's comments and be sensitive to hidden fears
  • Consider making arrangements in advance for the care of any siblings on the day of surgery to allow you to better focus on the recovery of your child having surgery.

Prior to surgery, there will be a pre-admission visit or telephone call to begin the registration process. We strongly recommend a visit to the facility to allow you to get accustomed to the location of the surgery area and parking lots prior to the morning of surgery. If your child has medical problems other than the reason for this surgery, the pre-admission visit will allow the anesthesia department to determine if further testing will be necessary.

Do not give your child aspirin or aspirin containing products for 2 weeks prior to surgery.

Do not give your child Motrin® or other anti-inflammatory products for 1 week prior to surgery.

 
Follow the instructions given by our office on when your child may eat or drink prior to surgery. Generally, solid foods (including milk, orange juice, apple sauce) cannot be consumed within 12 hours of surgery, and clear liquids (including water, Gatorade, Jell-O, and Popsicles) cannot be consumed within 4 hours of surgery. Failure to follow these instructions could result in your child's surgery being cancelled or delayed.

Nothing should be placed in your child's mouth within 4 hours of surgery including gum or hard candy unless specifically instructed for medical or health reasons.

Please arrive at the surgical facility at the designated time prior to your child's surgery. Generally, we recommend 1-1/2 to 2 hours prior to surgery to insure that all last minute problems can be adequately addressed. Arrival later than the assigned times may result in delay or cancellation of your child's surgery.

Fill any prescriptions the day prior to surgery so that they are available for use upon your return home from the hospital.

What to bring:

  • Any paperwork given to you by our office, which may include consent forms or lab requests
  • Insurance cards
  • Lists of your child's current medications and past medical problems
  • Your child's favorite blanket, stuffed animal, book or toy
  • An empty bottle or sippy cup, if used by your child
  • An extra pair of clothes for your child


Email your questions to info@akidsent.com

© 2007 Deborah M. Burton, MD
All rights reserved

Any information provided on this Web site should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for a consultation with a physician. If you have a medical problem, contact your local physician for diagnosis and treatment.

 

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