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Frequently Asked Questions

• What you and your child can expect after surgery
• What to do to prepare your child for surgery
• Books for you and your child
• Special tips to prepare different age children
• Words you and your child may hear

Special tips to prepare different age children

Infants (newborn to 12 months)
Younger infants (newborn through 6 months of age) separate from their parents more easily then older infants. For the older infant, not being able to see a familiar caregiver is often the most stressful part of surgery! For infants, pacifiers, favorite blankets or special toys can provide comfort and security.

Toddlers (ages 1 year to 2 years)
The toddler will express his or her feelings loudly and often! This is OK. Toddlers are also very active. Having surgery means that the toddler will have activities limited for a while. Plan for quiet activities after surgery that your toddler may do such as coloring or using modeling clay. For toddlers, pacifiers, favorite blankets or special toys can provide comfort and security.

Preschoolers (ages 3 years to 5 years)
The preschool child is curious and will want to know what will happen. Explanations should be simple and short; too much detail may be confusing. Storybooks that have realistic pictures of medical equipment are helpful for the preschooler. The preschool child may also be angry about having surgery or may believe that the surgery is a punishment. Reassure your child that the surgery is no one’s fault.

Schoolager (ages 6 years to 12 years)
The schoolage child may be more fearful of painful procedures, such as having an I.V, then the surgery itself. Provide clear explanations of what will be done to decrease pain. In general, the schoolage child will need more detailed explanations of the events that happen before, during and after surgery. The older schoolage child may be concerned about how the surgery might change how he or she looks.

Teenager (ages 13 and older)
Teens need clear answers about what will happen to them and should be a part of any discussions with doctors and nurses. The teenager is often most concerned about how the surgery will affect daily activities with friends. Your teenager needs your support while still being allowed independence and participation in decisions about surgery.

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