Care of your child after general anesthesia (1729)
What might happen after general anesthesia? Your child may have an upset stomach (nausea) or throw up (vomit) after surgery. If your child had clear liquids, wait for 1 to 2 hours before giving them again. Give only small amounts of clear liquids often. Your child may be very sleepy or dizzy after surgery. Watch your child closely and have them rest. Your child may have a sore throat after surgery. Drinking cool, clear liquids will help your child’s throat feel better. What special care will my child need? Diet. Start with clear liquids. This includes clear soda and soups, Popsicles®, juice, Jell-O®, etc. Slowly add foods unless you are told your child needs a special diet. If your child needs a special diet, you will be given more directions. If not, your child can eat their normal diet the day after you go home. Activity. Watch your child closely for 24 hours after you go home. Your child may have to avoid some activities. Your child’s doctor or nurse will give you further directions. Pain. You may be given a prescription for pain medicine. The doctor or nurse will explain how and when to give this medicine. If you have questions or if the medicine does not seem to help, call the doctor or nurse. Call your child’s doctor or nurse if your child: Is not able to keep clear liquids down or feels sick for more than 24 hours after going home. Feels dizzy or sleepy for longer than 24 hours, or if your child faints. Has a sore throat that lasts more than 1 day or has a fever over 101.5° F (38.6° C). Cannot urinate (pee) within 8 to 10 hours after going home. For more health and wellness information, check out this resource: https://kidshealth.org/ChildrensWi/en/parents ALERT: Call your child’s doctor, nurse, or clinic if you have any questions or concerns or if your child has special health care needs that were not covered by this information. This sheet was created to help you care for your child or family member. It does not take the place of medical care. Talk with your healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up.
