Preparing Your Child for Hospitalization or Surgery

A child is likely to be anxious or nervous about a hospital stay or surgery, and it is important that parents help prepare their children by providing information concerning the hospitalization that is age appropriate and stress relieving. Many parents are concerned about what exactly to say and when is the best time to talk with their child. Below are some suggestions on how to prepare your child for his or her upcoming hospitalization or surgery.

• Be open and honest. Tell your child he or she is going to the hospital for an operation, test or procedure and reassure your child by giving him or her simple explanations that are age appropriate.
• Explain what the hospital is. Many children may have never heard of a hospital or have a misconception because of previous experience with another family member or friend. It is important that you discuss what a hospital is in terms the child will understand. Talk about why going to the hospital is important, like “because your tummy has been hurting.” Also, explain what will happen while in the hospital in terms such as “doctors and nurses will help you get well and feel better.”
• Avoid negative words or phrasing. By using words that are more neutral, you will provide your child with a more appropriate perception of what to expect when he or she goes to the hospital. For example, you might say “the nurse will put a special colored liquid through your IV, so they can see your belly better,” rather than, “the nurse will put dye through your IV so they can see your belly better.”  Words such as poke, hole or stick may result in an unintended misconception and can be avoided by using more appropriate words.
• Be specific. Tell your child what he or she may feel before, during and after the operation. Children are very sensory oriented so it is important that you take into account all the details, for example, how the sleepy medicine will taste/smell, how the IV may feel, etc. Your child may also be fearful that he or she will feel discomfort or pain during the procedure. Remember to reassure your child that he or she will be asleep during the procedure or surgery and will not feel a thing.
• Overnight stay. Reassure your child that you will be able to sleep at the hospital with him or her. Encourage him or her to pack a bag with favorite pajamas, special pillow or blanket and his or her favorite toys or videos.
• Encourage him or her to ask questions. It is important that your child ask questions, because this will give you, as a parent, or the doctors and nurses the opportunity to address any of the child’s fears. If he or she does not feel comfortable asking the doctor, you can always ask the question.
• Feelings are important. It is common for a child to be nervous, angry, worried, etc., and it is important that your child knows what he or she is feeling is normal and understandable. You can also help your child express his or her feelings through play, art, and other child-friendly activities. Some children may also enjoy playing with a toy medical kit, acting out various tasks on a stuffed animal or doll.