It is important to prepare your child before coming to hospital.

Children should be given some information a few days beforehand at a level suitable for their age and understanding.

Children able to understand can be told:

• That they are going to hospital.
• That they will be having an operation or procedure.
• Some basic information about what will happen to them in hospital
• How long they will stay in hospital.

It is important to be truthful and honest with your child and encourage them to ask questions.

Comforting your child for surgery

We welcome your child to bring things from home to entertain themselves on the day of surgery.

For young children, this could be a favourite toy or comfort object. For older children, this could be a gaming console or colouring book.

You can ask our friendly staff if there are other ways that could help your child feel more comfortable and less anxious during their time in hospital.

Child Life and Music Therapy service

Child Life and Music Therapy provide support for patients having a general anaesthetic (Monday to Friday).

You can contact Child Life Therapy before your child’s surgery to help:

• Answer questions
• Plan your child’s admission
• Assist with surgery preparation, like during the anaesthetic process