Prior to surgery, you will meet with your child’s surgeon (surgical consult). They will discuss the planned surgery and known risks. After this visit, you should have a clear understanding of your child’s surgery.
Preparing for Surgery
Once the care team has made a plan to proceed with surgery, it is important to prepare yourself and keep your child as healthy as possible.
If your child is feeling sick before surgery, call your care team.
Required for all children over age one. Please have your child seen and cleared by a dentist within six months of surgery.
Your child will likely need screening for the presence of a common skin bacteria called “Staph”. If staph is present following surgery, it can enter into your child’s incision and cause an infection. If your child has staph on their skin, they will get medicine before and after surgery to prevent infection.
In the days prior to your child’s surgery, they will need to undergo specific testing, such as a physical exam, a chest x-ray, labs, and ultrasounds. Each child’s testing will be unique to their own heart disease and age. During this visit, you will receive instructions on a special bath your child will need before the surgery, as well as food and drink restrictions.
Consider packing some of the suggested items below in order to be as prepared and comfortable as possible during your child’s hospital stay.
- This booklet and other helpful information you may have received about your child’s heart and surgery
- Mobile phone, computer, tablets, and chargers
- Reusable water bottle
- Your own pillow and blankets
- Comfortable clothes for you and your child
- Photos from home
- A special stuffed animal or toy
- Snacks
- Toiletries