At Scottish Rite for Children, we provide expert care and support throughout your child’s inpatient surgery experience. We know this can feel like a big step, and it’s normal to have questions along the way.
From your first appointment through recovery, our team will guide your family along the way. Our surgeons, preoperative nurses, child life specialists and inpatient coordinators work closely together. They support your child and help them feel comfortable.
Before Surgery
Preparing for surgery starts before the day of your child’s procedure. Your care team will help you understand what to expect and how to get ready, so there are no surprises.
How to Prepare
In the weeks leading up to surgery, your child may need appointments or tests. You will also receive instructions to help prepare your child safely for surgery.
To get ready, you may be asked to:
- Share your child’s medications and supplements
- Complete any recommended tests or appointments
- Follow all eating, drinking and medication guidelines
If your child becomes sick before surgery, let your care team know as soon as possible. Even minor symptoms can affect the timing of surgery.
The Day Before Surgery
The day before surgery, a nurse will call you to review important details and walk through what to expect.
During this call, you will learn:
- When to arrive at the hospital
- Guidelines for eating and drinking
- What the day of surgery will look like
This is a great time to ask questions and feel confident about next steps.
What to Bring
Because your child will stay in the hospital after surgery, bringing a few familiar items can make a big difference in their comfort:
- Medications in original containers
- Medical equipment your child uses
- Comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes
- Favorite items, like a blanket, small toy or book
If your child uses specialized formula or equipment, bring enough for the full stay.
These small touches from home can help your child feel more relaxed in a new environment.
The Day of Surgery
It is completely normal for both you and your child to feel nervous on the day of surgery. When you arrive, our volunteers, child life specialists and your child’s care team will help you feel welcomed and supported.
Most families should plan to arrive early and spend several hours at the hospital.
As you get settled, your child will be gently guided through each step of the process.
Your child will:
- Check in and receive an identification bracelet
- Wait in waiting area
- Staff will call you back to PreOp room
- Have vital signs checked
- Change into a hospital gown
- Meet members of the surgical and anesthesia team
You can stay with your child until it is time to go to the pre-op area.
During Surgery
While your child is in surgery, you will wait in a designated area, like the surgery waiting room or cafeteria. We know this can be one of the hardest parts of the day, and our team works to keep you informed and supported.
You can expect:
- A way to follow your child’s progress during surgery, such as updates displayed in the waiting area
- Updates from the care team during longer procedures
If you miss a phone update, our team will call you again. You will continue to receive updates as needed.
After Surgery
Right After Surgery
After surgery, your child will go to a recovery area where the care team will monitor them closely. You will receive a phone call when your child is transported to their room.
Your child may return to their room with an IV to provide fluids and medications as they recover.
During the Hospital Stay
Your child may stay in the hospital for a few days, depending on their procedure and recovery needs.
During this time, your care team will focus on both healing and comfort.
They will:
- Check vital signs and breathing regularly
- Monitor the surgical site
- Help your child begin eating and moving safely
They will also help manage pain, nausea and other common side effects, adjusting care based on how your child is feeling.
Supporting Your Child
Surgery can be stressful for children and families. At Scottish Rite, we focus on caring for the whole child, not just their medical needs.
Child life specialists help your child understand what is happening using age-appropriate language, play and hands-on activities. This support can ease anxiety and help your child feel more in control.
You may also have the option to schedule a pre-admission tour, which can help your child feel more familiar with the hospital before surgery day.
Going Home
As your child gets ready to leave the hospital, their care team will take time to review everything you need to know.
Before discharge, you will go over:
- Medications and pain management
- Activity and recovery guidelines
- Follow-up appointments
You will leave with clear instructions and a plan for what comes next. If questions come up after you return home, our Social Work team can help connect you with additional support.
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Pediatric inpatient surgery includes procedures that require your child to stay in the hospital after surgery for monitoring and recovery.
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The length of stay depends on your child’s procedure and recovery. Your care team will share an estimated timeline and keep you updated.
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Pediatric anesthesiologists are specially trained physicians who give anesthesia and monitor your child’s vital signs and comfort throughout surgery.