Your Child's Preoperative Appointment
Before your child is scheduled for surgery at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, you'll bring her in for a preoperative appointment. This is the time the surgeon and surgical team will review your child's medical history, any medications she's taking, and any test results. The surgeon will also give her a complete physical exam to check her current health.
The surgeon's office staff may also be able to answer your questions about insurance coverage, and how to go about getting pre-approval for your child's operation.
This is a good time to have all your questions answered. For your convenience, we've created a list of questions for you to print out and bring with you to the preoperative appointment. There is room for you to add additional questions at the bottom of the page.
What to bring with you
When your child comes for her first visit, please bring:
- Her immunization records
- Her insurance card, as well as any referrals she may need
- Guardianship papers, if necessary
- Consultation letters from other specialists your child may see
- Current lab results
- Copies of any X-rays, CT scans or MRI scans your child has already had
- Her complete medical history (your child's doctor can send this in advance)
- A list of all medications your child is taking, or has recently taken, including prescription and over-the-counter
- A list of all allergies your child has (especially latex allergy)
What to expect at this visit
You and your child will meet with both the advanced practice nurse (APN) and the surgeon. After they examine your child and review her information, they'll discuss possible options with you.
If your child is able to proceed with surgery, the APN will complete the surgical and pre-anesthesia evaluation during your visit. You'll receive preoperative preparation instructions, as well as information about the surgery itself.
We'll let you know about any lab work, vaccines or medicines your child will need before surgery. Then, before you leave, you will be able to schedule the date for your child's surgery. (If you have special arrival needs, please let us know when you schedule the surgical date.)
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