Having an operation at the Children’s Centre

1. How can I help my child get ready for their operation?

You can help your child feel calm and ready for their operation by doing a few things:

• Talk to them in simple words about the operation. Explain what will happen and why it's needed.
• Read a story or watch a video about going to the hospital so they can understand better.
• Visit the hospital together to see where they will go for their operation. Some hospitals offer tours.
• Pack a bag with their favorite toy or blanket to bring with them for comfort.
• Practice calming techniques, like deep breathing or counting, to help them relax.

If you have more questions, you can ask the doctor or nurse for help.

2. What type of medicine will my child get to sleep during the operation?

3. Can my child eat or drink before the operation?

Before the operation, your child should not eat or drink anything. This helps keep them safe during the operation.

Here are some tips to help remember:

• Write a note or set a reminder so you remember when your child needs to stop eating and drinking.
• Ask the nurse or doctor if you have questions about when your child should stop eating or drinking.

4. What should I bring to the hospital?

Here is a list of things to bring to the hospital:

• Your ID or health card
• Comfortable clothes
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• A book or toy
• Your phone and charger

You can also use picture cards or ask someone to help you pack.

5. Can I stay with my child in the hospital?

Yes, you can stay with your child in the hospital. Hospitals will usually have places for parents to sleep. You can ask the nurse or doctor where you can stay.

If you have questions, it is okay to ask the hospital staff. They are there to help you and your child.

You can use tools like audio recordings or ask someone you trust to help you understand the information.

6. How long will my child stay in the hospital?

How many days will my child need to stay in the hospital?

This means asking the doctor how many days or nights your child will sleep in the hospital. It's good to ask if they will be there for a short time or a long time. You can use a calendar to keep track of the days.

7. What happens when we get to the hospital?

Here is what will happen when you get to the hospital:

• Someone will meet you. They are called a receptionist. They help you know where to go.
• You might have to wait for a little while. Waiting means sitting until it's your turn.
• A nurse or doctor will come and see you. They will check how you are feeling.

Things you can do:

• Bring a favorite toy or book. This can help you feel calm.
• Ask questions if you feel unsure. It is okay to ask for help.

8. Can I go with my child to the operating room?

Yes, you might be able to go with your child to the room where they have the operation. This depends on the hospital rules. You can ask the nurse or doctor if you can go. It is important to be calm and comforting for your child. You might only be able to stay until your child is asleep.

Try deep breathing to help you stay calm. If you're feeling worried, talk to the hospital staff. They can answer your questions and help you understand what happens next.

It can also help to bring a favorite toy or blanket for your child. This can make them feel better.

9. How do you keep my child safe?

We look after your child by following important safety steps. We make sure the place is safe, and all the grown-ups are helpful and kind. We also have rules everyone should follow to stay safe.

If reading is hard, you can ask someone to read the question with you. You can also try using tools like audiobooks to hear the words.

10. How will I know how the operation is going?

We will tell you how things are going during the operation. People like doctors or nurses can talk to you or your family. If you want, you can ask someone to sit with you and help you understand the words. Pictures or drawings might also help you know what is happening.

11. What happens after the operation?

After the operation, you will need care. This means looking after yourself or having someone help you. Here are some things to expect:

• Rest: You should take it easy and not do too much.
• Pain: You might feel some pain. Tell a grown-up if it hurts.
• Medicine: You may need to take medicine to feel better. Ask for help if you need it.
• Doctor Visits: You might need to go back to the doctor to check you are healing well.

If you find it hard to remember things, you can:

• Write things down.
• Use pictures to help you understand.
• Ask someone you trust for help.

12. Can my child go back to school after the surgery?

Your child might feel tired and need to rest after the surgery. Talk to your child's doctor to know when it's okay to go back to school.

You can also make a checklist of things your child might need help with, like carrying a backpack or walking up stairs.

13. What should I do if we have problems at home?

14. Will my child need more doctor visits?

Yes, your child might need to see the doctor again. This is to make sure they are getting better. These are called follow-up appointments.

Here are some helpful tips:

• Always write down the date and time of the next visit.
• Bring any medicine your child is taking to show the doctor.
• Ask the doctor any questions you have about your child’s health.
• Take notes during the visit to help you remember what the doctor says.

15. How can I help my child with pain after their operation?

Here are some simple steps to help your child feel better after their operation:

• Give Medicine: Follow the doctor’s instructions to give your child medicine if they are in pain. This will help them feel better.
• Rest and Relax: Make sure your child has a quiet and comfortable place to rest. This will help their body heal.
• Use a Soft Pillow: Give your child a soft pillow to support their body where it hurts. This can make them feel more comfortable.
• Distraction: Help your child think about something else, like a favorite story, show, or game. This can take their mind off the pain.
• Ask for Help: Always talk to the doctor or nurse if your child’s pain does not get better or if you are worried about anything.

These tips can make your child more comfortable and help them feel better after their operation.