At Specialist Network, we understand that preparing a child for surgery can be a worrying time for parents. Our Paediatric Surgeon Dr Richard Thompson and his care team are dedicated to making every hospital experience as smooth, reassuring, and low-stress as possible — for both children and their families. Below are a few different ways you can help mentally and emotionally prepare your child for surgery.
Provide Comfort and Familiarity
Bringing along a few familiar items from home can help your child feel more at ease in the hospital environment. A favourite teddy, blanket, or toy can be a great comfort — and yes, special teddies are welcome to come into the operating theatre too.
Games, books, or an iPad can also help pass the time while waiting. You are also welcome to bring a book or a magazine for yourself to stay occupied during your child’s procedure.
To aid in adding more plant diversity, consider creating a visual table of plant options, as per the below. This resource can serve as a handy reference, inspiring creativity and encouraging exploration in the kitchen.
Talk to Your Child About Surgery
Children are wonderfully resilient but understanding what to expect helps them feel in control. Talk openly and calmly about why they’re coming to the hospital and what will happen. You know your child best — simple, honest explanations tend to work best.
Role-playing at home can also be a great way to help them prepare. Playing hospitals with toys or watching gentle videos on YouTube like Peppa Pig Goes to Hospital can familiarise your child with the experience in a friendly, relatable way.
For some children, particularly those who feel anxious, arranging a short visit to the ward before their procedure can make a big difference. Meeting the staff and seeing the environment ahead of time helps them feel less unfamiliar on the day.
Provide a Calm Presence
In most cases, one parent is welcome to accompany their child into the operating theatre and stay until they are asleep. Your calm presence and reassurance help your child feel safe.
Once they are asleep, you can give them a gentle kiss on the cheek, and a member of our theatre team will guide you to a comfortable waiting area. You’ll be reunited with your child in recovery once they begin waking up and are safely settled.
For infants, the process may vary slightly, but rest assured; our team will ensure your child receives warm, attentive care every step of the way.
At Specialist Network, we understand that preparing your child for a surgical procedure can be daunting. However, we not only offer expertise and precision but also empathy and support every step of the way.
Dr Richard Thompson, an experienced and reputable Paediatric Surgeon from Gold Coast Paediatric Surgery is currently taking appointments.
To book or enquire, please contact our friendly staff at Specialist Network today on 1300 030 742 or visit our website.