Advice for Parents

How can I as a parent help?

You also have a key role to play in your child's care. It is important that you begin preparing your child for the operation as soon as a decision is made to perform surgery. Children tolerate surgery and anaesthesia better when they are well prepared.

As with all of us, children have natural fears of the unknown. Give your child a simple explanation of what is going to happen, preferably at least several days before hand. Honesty is a key word. Your child should be told that he or she will be in unfamiliar surrounds but will meet many friendly doctors and nurses. Tell them that they will have an operation and that there may be some discomfort afterwards. Let them know that you may not be with them every minute but will be waiting nearby.

Your composure as a parent is essential. Nothing calms a child more than a confident parent.  Being present when your child is anaesthetised is often helpful and it is common for one parent to be present as your child goes off to sleep. However this can be upsetting for some parents. It is perfectly acceptable for you to choose not to be present at the start of anaesthesia.