The Child Having Surgery

Hospital Visit / Preanesthesia Clinic

Can my child visit the hospital before surgery?

You may request for you and your child to visit and tour the facility prior to surgery. Touring the hospital before surgery can help your child see the sights, sounds, and events he/she will experience the day of surgery. It is a non-threatening, often reassuring, way to learn about the hospital.

If you have questions about how to address your child's particular needs in preparing for surgery, ask if a child life specialist is available to talk to you and your family. Preoperative education for children may also be available from a child life specialist who can explain what will happen, and why, in terms your child can understand. Child life specialists can also be helpful in assisting siblings to prepare for the changes in their routine and to express their feelings about the separation from their brother or sister.

To schedule an appointment with a child life specialist, please call Recreation Therapy, (650) 497-8336.

What is the preoperative exam?

The preoperative exam ensures that your child is ready for his/her scheduled surgery.  It can take place the day of surgery or the surgery office will let you know if you need to be scheduled on a different day.  Please bring your insurance information and a list of all medications your child is taking. If pre-admission lab work is ordered by your child's physician or nurse practitioner, it will be collected at this time. You will also meet the anesthesia team who will ask questions about your child's medical history, medications, and allergies. The anesthesiologist will be able to address any concerns or questions you have about anesthesia. If your child has had any problems with surgery or anesthesia in the past, please let the hospital staff know during this preoperative visit.

What is the preanesthesia clinic?

The preanesthesia clinic ensures that your child is ready to undergo anesthesia.  Children with a complicated medical history (such as cardiac disease, lung disease, and oral/airway problems) may be required to meet with an anesthesiologist or nurse practitioner prior to the day of surgery.  The surgery office will assist you in the coordination of this appointment.

What will my child need to do before we return to the hospital for surgery?

Once you and your surgeon have agreed to have surgery for your child, you may be given written instructions to follow. Make sure you understand all of them before leaving the clinic. Instructions will include when your child can eat or drink before coming to the hospital, and if he/she should take any of his/her usual medications. Bring any security items your child needs (such as a favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or pacifier) when returning for surgery.

You will receive a phone call from a nurse in the Preanesthesia Assessment Center (PAC) the night before surgery who will give you specific instructions about eating and drinking before surgery.  If your child does not follow the eating and drinking instructions prior to surgery, it will cause the surgery to be postponed.  The nurse will also confirm the time of surgery and when to arrive to the hospital.