We have tips on how to talk to your child about their upcoming surgery. Read the teaching sheet

You may bring items from home to help you and your child feel more comfortable the day of their surgery. Ideas include:

• Special toy or blanket
• Sippy cup or bottle used at home (please give to the nurse in pre-op)
• Something to read and some snacks while you wait
• A change of clothes for you and your child in case your stay is longer than expected

An operating room can look scary. While we are preparing your child for surgery and giving anesthesia, your child can hold a teddy bear or another comforting item.

You can feel good knowing that our staff members will reassure your child by talking and even singing as he or she falls asleep. During the operation we will update you regularly and encourage you to ask questions about the procedure.

Many people will work together to take care of your child and all are experts in caring for children.

Nurses
Our nurses will meet with your family, answer your questions and give you updates. Nurses help the anesthesiologist put your child to sleep. During the surgery they document the procedure and medications.

Surgeons
Our surgeons specialize in different areas of surgery and have training and expertise in surgeries for children.

Anesthesiologists
Our anesthesiologists are experts in safely putting and keeping children to sleep. They monitor your child throughout the operation and provide medication to keep your child's vital signs normal and to control pain.

Other Team Members
It takes a team to care for your child which includes surgical technicians, anesthesia technicians and pharmacists.

After surgery, your child will be taken to the recovery room, also referred to as the PACU Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). This is where your child wakes up from their surgery.

• Your child will have their own nurse that will provide the best and safest individualized care for your child.
• The goal of the recovery room is to make sure your child wakes up safely and that their pain is controlled.
• The best thing after surgery is to allow your child to rest for at least 20-30 minutes and wake up slowly. This allows for your child's body to process the medications they received during their procedure. Some children stay for as little as 20 minutes and others remain in the recovery room for several hours.
• We will reunite you with your child as soon as they are awake and doing well. The recovery room nurse will bring your child back to the day surgery room or inpatient room in the hospital.
• If your child is awake and asking for you, parents will be asked to join their child in the recovery room.
• If your child is going to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) after surgery, they will go directly to their ICU room. You will be reunited with your child when they are settled in their room.