Especially for Children
Can we visit the Ambulatory surgery Center before the day of surgery?
If you would like to tour the surgery center prior to the day of surgery, please call us to set up an appointment at 701-271-1045 or 1-877-918-5930.
Who needs to accompany my child to the surgery center?
A parent or legal guardian must accompany the child and must remain at the surgery center at all times for children under the age of 18.
It is unsafe to drive while caring for a child who has had surgery. Please bring another adult along to help you during the ride home.
Please refrain from bringing young children to the Surgery Center as guests.
What should I bring for my child?
If your child has a favorite blanket or stuffed animal please bring it to the surgery center. These items may stay with the child even in the operating room.
Please bring a bottle or “sippy” cup that your child likes. Children often prefer their own, particularly after surgery. We have apple juice, but if your child prefers a special juice , feel free to bring some along. If your child is on formula , or would like milk please bring these items with.
We will discuss medications your child is on when we do the pre-op call and will instruct you on any medications we would want you to bring to the surgery center.
Why must my child refrain from eating or drinking before surgery?
There is a risk that any person (even children) can aspirate stomach contents while under anesthesia. This risk is rare but is very serious.
How long should my child refrain from eating or drinking?
Generally, your child may drink water or apple juice up to 3 hours prior to their arrival at the surgery center. A specific time will be given to you during your pre-op phone call regarding formula and breast milk.
When will my child be permitted to eat or drink again?
Generally, your child can eat or drink very soon after the surgery. Some special situations will be handled differently.
Will my child receive some pre-medication before the surgery?
There are many ways to help you and your child get through the anxiety of the surgery. Every child and family will be assessed and together the best plan will be chosen. That plan may or may not include a sedative medication to be given preoperatively.
Will there be pain or needle sticks?
Each child will be treated on an individual basis. Most children choose to go to sleep using a breathing mask to avoid “pokes and sticks.” In these cases, after the child is asleep the intravenous will be placed then if needed.
How will my child's pain be managed?
The management of pain will be taken very seriously. We will be assessing the level of pain from the time of admission until you receive our postoperative call at home. You and your child will be frequently asked about pain and to rate the pain from a numerical scale, or for children, the Faces Pain Scale (see below). We will often use a combination of different modalities to help make them comfortable, choosing from oral medications, intravenous medication, or injection of local anesthetic for the management of their pain. Please feel free to bring up any concerns or fears you may have.
May I go into the operating room with my child?
You will be able to be with your child until they are ready to go to the operating room. A nurse will walk or carry your child back to the surgery suite. At that time you will have a seat in the waiting room. We will reunite you with your child as soon as possible. The surgeon will come and talk to you after surgery.
Where will my child go after the surgery?
After surgery, most children will go to the children's area of the recovery room. We will reunite you with your child as soon as possible.
When will I see my child after the surgery?
You and your child will be reunited as soon as possible. In some cases, you may be brought back to the recovery room to be with them. Most of the time parents will be reunited with their child within 10 to 30 minutes following the surgery, depending on the procedure that was done.
Can my child's sibling come to the Surgery Center?
We request that only the parents come to the Center. There will be other recovering patients close by and traffic in the recovery area needs to be minimized for medical reasons. Please make other arrangements for your other children.
What should I do if my child develops a cold or becomes ill before the surgery?
We prefer to do elective surgery when the child is well. If your child is having tubes in the ears, we may proceed if they have a cold. Do not hesitate to take your child to their pediatrician to see if they are ok to proceed with surgery. Your child will also be re-evaluated by the anesthesiologist the day of surgery. You may also call us at 701-271-1045 or 1-877-918-5930.
What should I do if my child has a medical problem at home?
If this seems urgent call 911 or go to the nearest ER immediately, otherwise call your surgeon who will answer your questions or instruct you on further care.
What if I have additional questions?
We encourage you to ask questions and will make every effort to address your concerns. You can contact us by phone at 701-271-1045 or 1-877-918-5930.
