Your Child's Preoperative Appointment

                                                                     🏥 Parent Information Guide

                        Your Child’s Preoperative Appointment

Dear Parent,

We understand that preparing your child for surgery can be stressful. This guide has been created to help you know what to expect before your child’s operation, and how you can prepare. The goal is to make the journey smooth, safe, and less overwhelming for both you and your child.

Why is a Preoperative Appointment Needed?

Before your child’s surgery, we will schedule a preoperative (pre-op) appointment. This visit is very important because:

• The doctor and surgical team will carefully review your child’s medical history.

• We will check details about any medications your child is taking.

• All recent test results (blood tests, X-rays, scans) will be reviewed.

• Your child will have a complete physical check-up to ensure they are fit for surgery.

👉 This is also the best time to ask all your questions about the surgery, recovery, hospital stay, costs, and insurance.

What to Bring With You

To avoid delays, please carry these documents and records for your child’s first visit:

• ✅ Immunization records (vaccination card)

• ✅ Insurance card and any referral letters if required

• ✅ Guardianship/legal papers (if applicable)

• ✅ Consultation notes from other doctors your child sees

• ✅ Lab results (blood tests, etc.) if already done

• ✅ X-rays/CT/MRI scans (bring films/reports/CDs)

• ✅ Complete medical history (your child’s doctor may also send it directly)

• ✅ List of medicines your child is taking (including home remedies or Ayurvedic/over-the-counter medicines)

• ✅ List of allergies (especially drug allergies or latex allergy)

What Will Happen at the Visit?

During this appointment:

• You and your child will meet the Pediatric surgeon.

• They will examine your child and review all information.

• The team will discuss treatment options and confirm if surgery is needed.

• If surgery is planned, you will get:

  • Pre-anesthesia check-up (to see if your child is ready for anesthesia).

  • Clear instructions on food, medicines, and fasting before surgery.

  • Information on what to expect during hospital stay and after surgery.

• The date of surgery will be fixed, and any special needs (like arrival time, private room request, or financial queries) can be discussed.

Informed Consent for Surgery

Before surgery, the doctor will explain:

• What the surgery is for

• How it will help your child

• What risks and complications are possible

• What recovery will look like

Once you are comfortable and your questions are answered, you will be asked to sign a consent form. This means you understand and agree for your child’s operation. In India, parental or legal guardian consent is always required for children under 18 years.

Questions You May Want to Ask

Here are some helpful questions you may take with you:

• Are there alternatives to surgery?

• What exactly will the surgery achieve?

• What are the possible risks or side effects?

• How long will the surgery take?

• What kind of anesthesia will be used?

• How many days will my child stay in hospital?

• Will my child feel pain? How will it be managed?

• Will my child need a blood transfusion?

• Will there be stitches or scars? How should we care for them?

• Will my child need antibiotics or other medicines afterwards?

• How soon can my child return to school or play?

• Is the surgery covered by insurance? Who can help me with paperwork?

Our Message to You ❤️

We know this is not easy for any parent. Please remember:

• You are not alone — we are your partners in caring for your child.

• No question is too small — ask freely.

• Preparing well before surgery makes the hospital stay shorter and recovery faster.

• Your confidence will make your child feel safe and strong.

Together, we will work to ensure your child receives the best and safest care possible.

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👨‍⚕️ Prepared by: Dr Dhruv Mahajan
*(For patient education and family counseling for kids who might require any surgical consult) *

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