C. S. Mott Children's Hospital
before
In general, children may have their regular diet/ formula until midnight the night before surgery (exception for infant's 0 - 3 month's age). After midnight and until 3 hours before surgery time, Water, Pedialyte, and Apple Juice Only are allowed. Then for 3 hours prior to surgery, nothing at all is permitted.
Children must have an empty stomach to receive anesthesia. Due to the risk of serious lung problems from vomiting or regurgitation, surgery will be cancelled or delayed if your child eats or drinks past the specified time.
The following symptoms or illnesses (current or within the past 6 weeks) should be reported to the Mott Outpatient Surgery Nurse at the time of the preoperative phone call: Croup, bronchitis, bronchiolitis, or pneumonia (all may cancel surgery for 4 - 6 weeks).
Due to the effect on bleeding, aspirin, ibuprofen or other nonsteroidal medicines such as Advil, Aleve, Motrin or Pediaprofen should NOT be taken for 2 weeks before surgery unless you are told otherwise. It is okay for most children to take acetaminophen (Tylenol).
Shower or bathe your child the evening before surgery. Makeup, nail polish, contact lenses, earrings or other jewelry, and tampons should be removed before your child arrives at the hospital.
Day of Surgery
Dress your child in loose clothing. Tight clothing (like jeans or shirts that slip over the head) may be uncomfortable or difficult to wear after some procedures. An extra pair of underwear may come in handy. If your child has long hair, we recommend that it be worn up or away from the face. Remember to bring your child's favorite toy, book, blanket, pacifier or special comfort item. They can take this with them into the operating room. If your child uses a special formula, Playtex bottle, nipple or sippy cup, bring these with you for your trip home.
Because your child having surgery will need your full attention, we request that you do not bring siblings or your children with you if possible. Young children will not be permitted to enter Phase I recovery but will be allowed in Phase II (if indicated).
Preop Reception and Waiting Room/ Check-In
Once you have signed in, your child will be asked to put on a hospital gown. (Yes, they do open in the back!) A staff member will check your child's weight, temperature, blood pressure, pulse and breathing.
Please! No eating or drinking in the Preop Reception and Waiting Room out of respect for our patients who are unable to eat or drink before surgery. Thank you.
