Pre-operative visits are standard before heart surgery. This page explains what to expect during this appointment.
What is the pre-operative visit all about?
If your child is having surgery, you and your child will have a pre-operative visit at the hospital. You will come in before the surgery for an appointment to prepare for the procedure. That day, your child will have a number of pre-operative tests and you will meet with a number of people on the health care team. Being prepared ahead of time for admission and surgery helps both you and your child cope with the experience of being in the hospital.
During your pre-operative visit, your child will have blood work, an X-ray, and ECG. You will meet with the pre-op nurse who will do an initial assessment and answer any questions that arise.
A nurse practitioner will take your history and do your child's physical examination. They will also available to answer any questions that may arise. The cardiovascular surgical fellow will come and explain the surgery to you and have you sign the consent form for the operation. You will also meet the surgeon, the anaesthesiologist, and, usually if your child is 3 years old or older, a child life specialist and a physiotherapist. The physiotherapist will instruct your child on some exercises he will need to do after surgery. Encourage your child to do these exercises as they will help with recovery.
During your pre-op visit you may also be asked whether you would like your child to participate in a research study.
This will be a full day. You will have a break for lunch, but bringing snacks and toys for your child are suggested. You should also be sure to bring any necessary documents for your child, like health cards, hospital cards, and referral letters.
Important considerations before surgery
It's important that you let the cardiovascular surgical coordinator know before the day of surgery if your child has a cold, diarrhea, or signs of the flu, or has had any contact with someone who has a contagious disease like chickenpox or the measles. If this is the case, the surgery may need to be postponed.
If your child is over 1 year of age and has several teeth, they will need a dental check before the pre-operative day. Arrange for an appointment with the dentist. This is necessary to minimize risk of infection during the surgery.
Finally, make sure the surgical coordinator knows what medicines your child is taking, if any.