Preparing
Your Child for Surgery
Children with congenital heart disease and their families need special attention
directed toward their abilities to accept and adjust to the situation. Children's response
to hospitalization depends on several factors; the child's age and stage of development,
the families ability to cope with the hospitalization, preparation for the hospital
experience and the hospital environment. It is vital to your child's normal growth and
development that they receive some sort of preparation prior to surgery. This preparation
can reduce stress for both you and your child. Most hospitals have a nurse, social worker,
child life therapist or combination thereof that will help you prepare your child for
their hospital stay.
Helpful Parent Tips:
- Arrange for your child to attend a Pre-Operative Education Class. This will give the
child and you an opportunity to ask questions. Ideally, the class should be several days
before the scheduled admission.
- Ask the staff to arrange for a tour. This will decrease the stress of being in an
unfamiliar environment. It will also provide the opportunity for you and your child to
meet some of the staff that will be responsible for the post operative care of your child.
- Inquire about donating blood (if you are the same blood type) for your child's surgery.
This often takes a few days at least so ask early on in the planning for your child's
hospitalization.
- Allow them to work through feelings or fears through play with medical supplies such as
surgical caps, Band-Aids, etc.
- Read a book with your child about going to the hospital. Many books are available in
public libraries. Ask your doctor for a book that is appropriate for your child's age.
The
Hospital Book by James Howe (appropriate for ages 5-12)
A Doctor's Tools by Kenny DeSantis (appropriate for ages 3-8)
Going
to the Hospital by Fred Rogers and Jim Judkins
- Allow your child to bring a favorite toy, stuffed animal or pictures of friends, pets
and family.
- Ask the doctor or nurse what your child may experience at the hospital.
- Present the positive aspects of surgery.
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