Surgery is scary for kids and parents, alike, but not talking about an upcoming surgical procedure can create more fear and anxiety in children. In episode number 29, Child Life Specialist Brianne Ortiz offers tips for preparing children, from toddlers to teens, for surgery.
The amount of information, in addition to how and when it’s presented, depends on the emotional and cognitive age of the child. Brianne recommends parents speak to children, ages 3 to 5, approximately three to five days before the scheduled surgery. These younger-aged children often think they’ve done something wrong, so it’s important to reassure them that’s not the case and to present information in concrete terms they understand. She reminds parents that toddlers don’t have a concept of time. Instead of saying a procedure will last an hour, for example, explain that it will be over in about the same time as their favorite TV show.
Adolescents most often worry about waking up during surgery and about pain. Brianne educates teens on the role of the anesthesiologist and the hospital’s pain scale. She encourages teens to engage with their care team and not be afraid to speak up.
CHOC Radio theme music by Pat Jacobs.
