In the spirit of Christ and the example of Francis of Assisi, the Mission of OSF HealthCare is to serve persons with the greatest care and love in a community that celebrates the Gift of Life.
Preparing for your child’s surgery can feel overwhelming, but knowing what to expect can help calm nerves and make the day go more smoothly. Before surgery, your care team will guide you on how your child should fast, which means avoiding eating or drinking for a set time, what medications your child can take, and when to arrive at the hospital. You may also set up a pre‑operative tour to help your child know what to expect the day of surgery.
Food and drink are allowed in public waiting areas. No food or drink is allowed in the pre-operative areas or recovery room or the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). Only food or drink for patients is allowed in the recovery area for children going home.
Yes! A pre‑operative tour is available at OSF Children’s Hospital of Illinois. These free tours help your child become familiar with key areas such as check‑in spaces, waiting rooms and recovery areas. The tour is led by child life specialists [link to https://www.osfhealthcare.org/hospitals/childrens/programs-services/inpatient-services/child-life-services] who explain the surgical process in child‑friendly language and answer questions to help reduce their anxiety.
Touring ahead of time can make the actual surgery day feel less intimidating and gives your child a sense of what to expect.
Surgery time varies based on the type of procedure your child is having. Your surgeon is the best person to give you a time estimate, and they will discuss this with you during your pre‑surgery planning or on the day of surgery.
In most cases, yes. Surgery preparation, the procedure itself and recovery can take many hours. It’s best to plan to be at the hospital most of the day so you can be present for each step of the process and support your child.
Consider packing items that comfort your child, especially if they are staying overnight:
Also bring medical items such as:
Parents may stay with their child in the pre‑operative area before the procedure begins. Whether a parent can enter the operating room varies by situation. Your child’s anesthesiologist can speak with you about this on the day of surgery.
After surgery, two parents or guardians may be invited into the PACU recovery room. Your child may still be waking up from anesthesia and may not immediately recognize you or could be crying, which is normal. Speaking quietly and offering comfort can help ease their transition. Other siblings and visitors should remain in the waiting area.
Your child’s anesthesiologist determines the best time to place the place the intravenous line (IV). Sometimes it’s done while your child is still awake; other times it’s placed in the operating room after they are asleep.
Ask your care team about numbing options like creams or a device to make the area feel less sensitive. Ask if you can hold or comfort your child in a reassuring position, like sitting on your lap. Distraction with toys, interactive books, or games can also help ease stress and keep them from looking at the needle. Giving clear, supportive instructions like, “Now is the time to hold still and take a breath. Let’s pretend that we’re blowing out birthday candles.” This can make the experience more manageable.
Whether your child stays overnight depends on the specific surgery. Some procedures require overnight hospitalization; others allow your child to go home the same day. Your surgeon will let you know what to expect before the day of surgery.
Yes, cellphones can be used in most hospital areas. Please avoid using them within three feet of monitors and medical equipment, like IV poles, to ensure safety and proper functioning.
No. Smoking is not allowed on hospital grounds. Staff can direct you to designated areas off campus if needed.