Here are some things that you will need to do before your child’s surgery.
Preparing for surgery
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Bring your child for any pre-surgery tests. These may include blood and urine tests. (Not all children need testing.)
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Tell your child what will happen before, during, and after surgery. Honesty is better than leaving your child with unanswered questions and fear.
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Ask your provider if the hospital has a program that helps parents and children understand the hospital layout, where the surgery and recovery will happen, and where parents can wait.
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Make arrangements to stay with your child during the entire hospital visit, if it's possible.
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Before you sign the surgery consent form, make sure all your questions have been answered.
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Follow any directions your child is given for taking medicines or for not eating or drinking before surgery.
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Give the surgeon a list of any medicines your child takes. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines and herbal supplements.
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Tell the surgeon about any allergies your child has, such as to medicines, certain foods, or substances like latex.
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Help your child choose a toy or blanket to bring to the hospital.
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Bathe your child and remove any jewelry and hair accessories. This includes hair clips and earrings.
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Call the surgeon if your child has a fever or acts sick before surgery. Surgery may need to be delayed.
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Ask the surgeon about other special directions.
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Online Medical Reviewer: Daphne Pierce-Smith RN MSN
Online Medical Reviewer: Marianne Fraser MSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Sravani Chintapalli
Date Last Reviewed: 10/01/2024
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.Related Articles
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