The Day of the Procedure

Arriving at the Hospital

Upon arrival you will meet with a nurse to review information about the procedure and learn how the events of the day will go.  In addition, there may be additional information required.

• A nurse may ask additional questions about your child’s health when you arrive.
• The nurse will give you information about discharge and how to care for your child at home.
  — You may ask questions of the nurse and/or request educational information that you can read or view while you wait.
• If the lab work requested by your child’s physician has not been done, the tests may be done at this time.
• Please make sure that your child does not wear fingernail polish or jewelry on this day.
• Your child may be more comfortable if barrettes and other hair accessories are not worn.
  — However, it is helpful if he/she has long hair to pull it back into pigtails.
• Your child may bring their favorite toy, pillow, blanket, or stuffed animal.
• Have your child wear comfortable clothes that are easy to get on and off.
• If your child is scheduled to spend the night after the procedure, please bring additional personal belongings for later. Please bring one suitcase. We suggest that you leave this in your vehicle until after surgery is finished.

Pre-Op and Surgery

You will be able to wait with your child before surgery. You may receive a visit from the surgeon, a nurse and the anesthesiologist who will be caring for your child. When your child goes to surgery, the anesthesiologist may allow one parent to accompany your child. A waiting area is provided for parents and visitors during the child’s procedure.

Parent Present Induction

One parent or legal guardian may be allowed in the induction room while the child goes to sleep. This option is offered at the discretion of the anesthesiologist. It is meant to ease separation anxiety for pre-school through school-age children and the family. Whether the parent chooses to be in the induction room or not, the child will still receive the same quality, compassionate care from the surgical health care team.

Recovery Room (PACU)

Your child will go to the recovery room after surgery, and a nurse will be with your child. Once your child begins to wake up, the nurse will locate you in the waiting area so you can join your child. Typically, only one parent is allowed in the recovery room at a time, but we encourage parents to trade off so that they can both see their child as he/she wakes up.

Home Care

You will be given instructions on how to care for your child at home. The amount of time your child needs to stay depends on the type of procedure. If possible, we suggest that two adults accompany a child having outpatient surgery (one to drive and one to care for the child). Parents are considered a part of the team. You know your child the best and are the best resource for your child’s needs. If at any time you do not understand any part of your child’s care or have any questions, please let us know.