Child Life Specialists prepare children for medical tests
and procedures by using dolls, pictures, and words to help children
understand their medical experiences. Child Life staff are also
available to provide age appropriate activities and to support
patients and families throughout their hospital stay.
Items to Bring to the Hospital
- History and physical, X-rays and test
results
- Legal papers documenting patient's
guardianship
- A stuffed animal that can be with your child during their
surgery or procedure
- A pacifier, if a pacifier soothes your young child
- Books or magazines to read while you are
waiting
- A list of child's medications and information about how
much medicine your child takes and how often
- A list of your questions for the nurses, doctors, and
anesthesiologists
- A nurse will call with dates, times and instructions of what
time your child can not eat or drink after. Acceptable clear
liquids include water, apple juice, pedialyte, kool-aid, Gatorade,
and all sodas. Chicken broth and/or bullion ARE NOT clear liquids.
This call will be made at least one business day prior to your
child's scheduled surgery. During that time, feel free to ask any
questions or express concerns you have regarding the upcoming
surgery or procedure.
The Day of Surgery
- You will check in your child and fill out needed paperwork upon
your arrival to the Same Day Surgery area.
- A nurse will check your child's "vitals", which includes
height, weight, blood pressure, and temperature.
- You and your child will meet with an anesthesiologist.
- While your child is in surgery, you will wait in a parent
waiting room.
- When your child's surgery is complete, your child will wake up
in the recovery room. You will see your child when he/she moves to
the post-op area or as he/she is transported to an inpatient
room.
Resources
