After Surgery

---

When Can I Visit or Stay With My Child?

Two people at once may visit with your child in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). These people may be parents or grandparents. You will be asked to leave briefly during the nursing shift change and report times. These happen in the morning and evening. Once your child is moved out of the PICU, you can stay with your child as much as you would like. Please remember that nurses and child life specialists will spend time with your child. You are not expected to be there 24 hours a day.

You cannot stay overnight in the PICU. However, there are some sleep rooms available nearby. Arrangements can be made through the Social Work Department. Several local housing alternatives for parents are available through the Social Work Department at: (801) 662-3700. Once your child is moved from the PICU, one parent can stay overnight in your child's room.

How Does My Child Recover from Surgery?

As your child recovers, his activity will be increased. Once your child is ready to leave the PICU, he will be moved to a patient room for the rest of his time in the hospital. Nurses will continue to check your child's temperature, heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure at different times during the day. Your child will also be weighed each morning. Your child's diet will be monitored-nurses will record all food and fluid intake and keep a record of urine and bowel movements. During this time, your child may have restrictions on how much he can eat and drink.

Your patience and support is helpful. Playrooms and a teen room are available for patients who feel well enough, or a care team member can bring activities to your child's room.

What About Pain?

Medicines that are used during the surgery can last throughout the night. They not only make your child sleepy, but they can help to control the pain. Once these medicines wear off, your child will receive medicine as needed to relieve the pain. It will be given in your child's IV (a tiny tube inserted into a vein-see the handout Let's Talk About ... IV or by Mouth.) The dosage of medicine is based on your child's body weight.

It will be uncomfortable in the days after the surgery for your child to move and cough. Moving and coughing is a very important part of recovery. You can be an important part of the care team by helping your child participate in activities that help him get better. Remember, though, that being uncomfortable and being in pain are two different things. Work closely with your care team and speak for your child when you need to.

When Can My Child Go Home?

The health care team begins planning for discharge when your child is first admitted. It is also important for you to prepare for a smooth transition from hospital to home. The staff will teach you any special procedures you may need to do with your child. Ask questions-the staff will answer any questions about your child's needs at home.

The members of the health care team will try to let you know in advance of the day your child can go home. Sometimes the decision may be made early that very day. The cardiothoracic surgery nurse practitioner or fellow will give you written instructions. These include instructions on diet, wound care, medicines, and activity restrictions, as well as phone numbers for the care team.

Utah law requires that all children under the age of 4 or weighing less that 40 pounds be fastened in an approved car seat when riding in automobiles. Primary Children's Medical Center strongly recommends that you follow this state law for your child's health and safety. If you do not have a car seat, or if you are unsure if yours is installed correctly, please ask your nurse or social worker to help you get one before your child goes home.