Children rarely have experience with outpatient surgery or anesthesia. That’s why we are sensitive to the unique emotional needs of children facing a surgical procedure.
If your child is having surgery, you will:
- Stay with your child in every area of the Outpatient Surgery Center, except the room where the surgery takes place
- Receive a report from the surgeon immediately following the procedure
- See your child in the recovery room shortly after the surgery is over
We know it’s important for you to have the support of family and friends when you have surgery. Invite your family to stay with you while you’re in the Outpatient Surgery Center until you’re ready for surgery.
Things to keep in mind:
- Bring a picture ID with you
- Bring a list of your medications
- Leave valuables like jewelry at home
- Wear something comfortable, and bring a sweater if needed
- Remember your glasses or contacts
- Please bring only one or two visitors with you
- Please do not bring children who are not having surgery
- Bring a favorite toy or something for your child to do until surgery
- Wireless Internet is available for your convenience
We’ll keep in touch with your family during your surgery to let them know how you’re doing.
You will recover from surgery in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) after your surgery. The nurses will monitor you closely. It’s important to let your nurse know if you’re in pain. He or she will give you medicine to control the pain, or you also may receive patient-controlled analgesia (PCA).
Other considerations you should be aware of as you recover and prepare to go home:
- Parents may see small children as soon as they are awake
- One or two visitors may stay with you in the recovery room
- Surgeon will talk to your family while you’re in the recovery room
