Day of surgery - Akron Main Building
Before you arrive
- Have your child bathe or shower and wash his hair. Follow any special soap/scrub instructions from your surgeon/physician.
- Children may brush their teeth if they are able to do so without swallowing water.
- Remove all make-up, nail polish, jewelry, piercings and hair accessories with metal (including hair extensions).
- Bring a box or case to store contacts and removable orthodontic appliances if you cannot leave them at home.
- Your child should wear loose, comfortable clothing.
- Have your child bring a favorite comfort item to take into surgery. To help prevent infection, wash this item before bringing it to the hospital.
Once you arrive at the hospital
- You must arrive at the hospital 90 minutes before the scheduled surgery start time.
- Your child's surgery is scheduled in the main hospital in Akron. Park in the P1 Bowery parking deck, 199 Bowery St.
- Upon arrival, a urine specimen will be collected on all females who have begun menstruation or spotting.
- The anesthesiologist will evaluate your child before the operation to ensure a safe anesthetic during surgery. The type of anesthesia and method of delivery are based on your child's age, type and length of surgery, general health and other factors.
- Due to visitor restrictions, only one adult is permitted in the pre- and post-operative areas. Child care is not provided.
- A legal guardian must accompany your child to the hospital on surgery day.
After surgery
- The surgeon will speak to you privately about the procedure.
- Your child will be taken to the post anesthesia care unit where 2 visitors older than 18 years will be allowed.
- The outpatient pharmacy is available to fill any home-going prescriptions.
- A parent, legal guardian or other adult must be available to drive the child home.
Changes in behavior
You may notice a change in your child's behavior before or after surgery. Clinginess is a common post-hospital behavior, but children are resilient and they'll typically work through it. If disruptive behaviors last longer than 6 weeks, talk to your child's doctor.
Encourage your child to play "doctor" and "hospital," draw pictures of their experience, and/or journal about their experience. These types of activities will help lead them to a healthy recovery.