The word surgery alone is enough to scare people. When even grownups are worried and terrified of surgeries, kids will naturally balk at the word. Some might cry and go into hiding while others might throw a tantrum and sulk. Before handling children, it is important for parents to talk to the doctor first and get their doubts cleared. Talk to parents of other children who went through the same surgery. They will tell you things from the parents’ perspective.
Once you are relatively calm, deal with the child. Gather all the required information about the surgery and the recovery process. Kids ask a lot of questions once they begin to accept what needs to be done. The last thing you want to do is to give them the wrong information.
- Communicate
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- Talk to your child. And when we say talk, we mean we want you to be frank, positive, and encouraging.
- Explain why the surgery is needed and how it will help them. How you convey the news will depend on the maturity level of your child. If your child appreciates a straightforward approach, be open and don’t beat around the bush.
- Assure them you will be there in the hospital. Kids need to be told how much they are loved. So do it. Do not assume they know you’ll be present.
- Take a Tour of the Hospital
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- Call the hospital and ask if you can walk through the hospital with your child. When a child knows how the place looks and where the surgery would happen, it might calm him/ her.
- However, if your child tends to react adversely, keep the tour to the minimum and introduce them to the staff and nurses you know are friendly.
- Follow Preoperative Instructions
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- Listen to the doctor’s instructions and follow them without fail. A day before your child’s pediatric surgery in Delhi.
- Give them a good bath as it may not be possible for a few days until after the surgery.
- Don’t let them eat or chew anything after the instructed time. This includes chocolates, candies, and chewing gum.
- Prepare a bag of your child’s favorite items and take it along to the hospital. Two or three favorite toys, a favorite game, or anything that can be carried easily and will calm your child.
- Carry your comfort item too. As a parent, you need to feel comfortable and assured as much as your child. Children sense disturbances better than adults. Don’t let your tension create a fear in them.
- Let the child keep the toy with him/ her. Stay in the room until you are allowed to do so. Don’t talk too much about the surgery when in the hospital.
Make a list of items you will need while in the hospital. You can even let your child help in packing the bag and labeling the items. Keep your tone light and don’t forget to smile.
