C. S. Mott Children's Hospital
after
After surgery, your child will be transported to the Phase I Recovery Room for close observation and care. (Some children are directly admitted from the operating room to the intensive care unit). Your child may awaken quickly or sleep for what seems a long time. As soon as your child is awake, you will be able to visit and stay with him or her in Phase I (only 2 adult visitors at a time in Phase I).
Phase I:
Some children continue to need small amounts of oxygen while in Phase I. This is provided by a facemask, nasal tubing (cannula) or by blowing the moisturized oxygen through tubing by the child's mouth and nose. An oxygen monitor will be wrapped around a finger or toe. An IV and blood pressure cuff may be in place. Any special needs from surgery (such as a cast or dressing) will also be present. Some pain can be expected after surgery. Doctors and nurses will try to keep your child as comfortable as possible. For more information please see our pain management section.
Phase II:
Outpatients
Children going home the same day of surgery (outpatients) are moved from Phase I into Phase II. Clear liquids will be offered and they can watch TV. Discharge instructions will be reviewed with you. Plan on your child being in the Recovery Room (Phase I and II) at least one hour or more.
Children are discharged from Phase II and transported to the parking structure in a wheelchair. Younger children and infants may be carried or ride in a stroller.
Patients for Admission
Children who will be admitted to the hospital after surgery can have parents or caregivers visit in the Phase I Recovery Room. Parents accompany their child as they are moved from Phase I to their hospital room. In Mott Children's Hospital, patient care is family focused so you will be encouraged to help with many aspects of your child's care. Each general care unit offers flexible visiting hours. Some parents choose to "room in" with their child. (This option is not available for moderate or intensive care areas.) Please note that only one person can be accommodated to sleep in the room.
