Preparing Your Child for Surgery: A Parent’s Guide
At Shreenika Speciality Clinic, we understand that hearing your child needs surgery can be one of the most stressful moments in a parent’s life. Whether it’s a routine procedure or a complex operation, it’s natural to feel anxious, uncertain, and protective. Over the years, we’ve seen that children recover best when their parents are well-informed, calm, and involved in the process.
Pediatric surgery isn’t just about the operation—it’s about the entire journey of healing, and your role as a parent is central to that journey.
1. Talking to Your Child
How you explain surgery to your child depends on their age.
Toddlers and younger children: Keep it simple—“The doctor will help fix your tummy while you’re asleep.”
Older children: Be honest but reassuring—explain that the surgery is to make them feel better, and that you’ll be with them throughout.
Avoid words like “cut” or “pain” and use softer phrases like “fix,” “help,” or “rest.”
2. Staying Calm Yourself
Children sense their parents’ emotions. If you appear anxious, they will too. Take time to ask all your questions to the medical team beforehand, and once reassured, project confidence in front of your child. Trust in the process and in the team caring for them.
3. Preparing for Surgery Day
Your doctor will give you specific instructions—most importantly about fasting (when your child should stop eating or drinking before surgery). This is crucial for safe anesthesia.
Pack a small hospital bag with:
Comfortable clothes
A favorite toy, book, or blanket
Medical reports and ID proof
Details of any allergies or medications
4. What Happens on the Day
Upon arrival, our team will guide you through the process. If anesthesia is required, an anesthetist will explain the procedure. Most children are gently put to sleep using a mask and are asleep within seconds. In some cases, you may stay with your child during induction and will be reunited soon after surgery.
5. After the Surgery
Your child will first be monitored in a recovery area. It’s normal for them to be drowsy or irritable when waking up—your reassuring presence is the best comfort.
At home, follow the surgeon’s advice on:
Wound care
Diet and hydration
Medications
When to return for follow-up
Seek immediate medical attention if your child develops:
High fever
Persistent vomiting
Significant swelling or redness at the surgical site
Pain that does not improve with prescribed medications
6. Remember
You are never alone in this journey. At Shreenika Speciality Clinic, we encourage parents to call us anytime after discharge if they have concerns. There’s no such thing as a “small” question when it comes to your child’s recovery.
Our belief is simple: The healing process begins with trust, preparation, and emotional comfort. When parents feel confident and children feel safe, surgery becomes less frightening, and recovery becomes faster and smoother.
