Preparing for Surgery at St. John Hospital and Outpatient Facilities

Children often find surgery a confusing and frightening experience. You can help your child relieve some of this anxiety by talking with them about their fears before you arrive at the hospital. You can also help by remaining calm before and after the operation. Remember, your child is sensitive to your feelings and will be reassured if you do not seem anxious or worried.

Before the surgery takes place, your surgeon will educate you and your child about the procedure — feel free to ask as many questions as you have during the pre-operative visits. If your child is old enough and feels comfortable doing so, encourage them to ask questions as well.

At St. John Hospital, all patients are contacted by phone before surgery by a registered nurse to discuss questions and concerns as well as provide further instructions about preparing for surgery.

Families are also encouraged to participate in the Sail Through Surgery program which is a one-hour pre-opertive program for your child and family to learn about the upcoming surgery in a non-threatening way. This program is offered at St. John Hospital and at our outpatient facility, the St. John Sugery Center in St. Clair Shores. It includes tour of the the operating rooms and the opportunity to meet the staff. Prizes and refreshments are provided.

Patients are also contacted after surgery by a registered nurse to check on their progress and recovery as well as answer questions.