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The doctor has told you that your child needs an operation. This may be done as an outpatient which means your child will go home with you after the procedure or your child may need to stay overnight afterwards. Either way, unlike emergency surgery, you have time to prepare yourself and your child for this event. Often children (and their families too) are worried and frightened about having an operation. Many things can be done to make this experience a good one for your entire family. The more you know about the hospital and the surgical experience, the better you can help your child feel safe and comfortable being here. Our health care team wants to make this experience a positive one. We look forward to caring for your child! Preparation can help your child understand what to expect and to feel less nervous. However, many parents are unsure of what to tell their child about having an operation. Others believe that the information will scare the child. However, most children cope best if they have opportunities to learn about what is going to happen and to ask questions. The following guidelines give suggestions so you can best prepare your child for their operation in a way that they will understand. PREPARING YOURSELF
Make certain that you discuss all your questions, fears and concerns with your child’s doctor. It is normal to feel nervous about your child’s operation. But remember, your child (even infants) can sense your concerns. This may make your child more anxious. The more information you have about the operation, the more in control and positive you will feel. PREPARING YOUR CHILD
Children often have their own fears, concerns and misconceptions about surgery. Fears about pain, separation from parents, and fantasies about what will occur all are common. Children’s feelings will be influenced by their experiences with health care and by how they have been prepared. For these reasons, it is important to help children learn about what to expect in a way that is appropriate for their developmental age. GETTING STARTED
Before a hospital stay, children need to know why they are coming and what will happen. The key is to be honest with your child. Depending on your child’s age, maturity level and development, you can decide how much information to give your child. Many families find it very helpful to attend a Preoperative Tour at MUSC Children's Hospital. Children of all ages and their families can visit the areas and meet people that they will see when they come back for their operation. Whether you attend the tour or not, explaining the experience will be very important. • Provide simple explanations about why the operation is necessary and what part of their body will be “fixed.”
• Let your child know that they have not done anything wrong and that they are not in trouble. Sometimes children think that staying in the hospital is a punishment. They need to know that it is not their fault that they need to have an operation.
• Answer your child’s questions honestly and use words they will understand.
• Let your child know that you will be there with them as much as possible (if this is true). Often, children are more scared of being separated from their parent than the medical events. PRACTICAL POINTS: WHAT TO BRING TO THE HOSPITAL
Here is a list of what to bring for you and your child if he/she will be admitted to the hospital after surgery.
For Your Child:
• Favorite stuffed toy or comfort item
• Pajamas, robe and slippers
• Movies (there are VCR/DVDs in the room)
• Schoolwork (if appropriate)
• Photos of favorite people
• Medicines that your child are currently taking
• Favorite sippy cup and/or pacifier (if appropriate) For Parents/Caregivers:
• Pajamas, robe and slippers, comfortable clothing
• Your medicines
• Personal hygiene items such as toothbrush and toothpaste
• Books and magazines
• Calling card (to make long distance calls)
• List of important phone numbers
• Money for meals and snacks
• Your child’s insurance information SEE THE ATTACHED SHEETS FOR MORE INFORMATION SPECIFIC TO YOUR CHILD’S AGE. • If you have any further questions about how to prepare you child or if you would like to schedule a tour, please call the Child Life Department:
For Day Surgery: (843)792-2466
For Overnight Surgery: (843)792-7065 • If you have any questions about your child’s surgery procedure, please call your child’s doctor. | 
