Welcome!
The staff of the Children’s Heart Center wants to help answer questions
about what to expect when your child has a heart operation. We also want you
to know what to expect when you visit the hospital—that’s why we’ve
created this section.
The nurses and staff of the Children’s Heart Center are specially trained
to care for children with heart disease before and after surgery. We provide
close observation and specialized care for each child.
Before Surgery
It’s very important for your child to stay well before their operation!
As hard as it might be, try to keep your child away from sick children or adults
to prevent them from catching something. If your child does get sick, visit
your pediatrician. They will help determine whether your child should reschedule
the surgery.
There is a possibility that your child’s surgeon will conduct tests on
your child before surgery to determine the type of heart problem and how severe
it is. These tests may include an echocardiogram (ECHO), cardiac catheterization,
blood tests, urinalysis, chest X-ray or an electrocardiogram.
The Night Before
Your doctor may give your child special instructions for the night before, such
as eating and drinking guidelines or a special soap to bathe with. Be sure to
follow their instructions. Otherwise, get a good night’s rest.
What to Bring to the Hospital
Many children prefer to have some of their personal belongings with them while
they stay in the hospital…a favorite blanket, toy or stuffed animal. Feel
free to bring them along with you. Other than that, you should only bring pajamas,
slippers and personal items (such as a toothbrush). We will provide you with
linens, formula and soap. If you have any other questions about what to bring
or what the hospital provides, ask your child’s doctor or nurse.
While You Wait
The Children’s Heart Center provides you and one other adult the opportunity
to spend the night in a private waiting room, located to the right of the yellow
elevators on the fourth floor. There is a shower area with linens and lockers
provided for caregiver use. We ask that you do not bring personal linens from
home because of infection control policies at ACH. The waiting room has a television
and a telephone for your use. No children under 12 are allowed in the waiting
room, so we strongly encourage you to make childcare arrangements for your other
children while your child is at the Heart Center.
There will be a Family Service Assistant available during the day to help you
with your questions, and the nursing staff will help you at night.
As well at the Children’s Heart Center waiting room, the Family Service
Assistants and social workers can give you information for hotel discounts or
the Ronald McDonald House.
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