Children and Special Needs Patients

Special Care for Children

We provide the extra attention and comfort children need in a new and unfamiliar environment. Please review the Before Your Surgery and During Your Stay sections (or link) for additional guidance, along with the instructions below. Following these guidelines can help prevent delays or cancellation of your child’s surgery.

Drinking Guidelines

Children may have up to 1 cup (8 oz) of clear liquids up to three hours before arrival. Acceptable liquids include water, apple juice, soft drinks, or Kool-Aid. Do not give milk or orange juice.

Eating Guidelines

Children should not eat anything for eight hours before arrival. Please ensure they do not suck on candy or swallow toothpaste prior to surgery.

Parental Presence

At least one parent or legal guardian must remain in the facility throughout the surgery and recovery period. Please avoid bringing other young children. If your child’s surgery is scheduled around noon, consider bringing lunch for yourself while you wait.

Comfort Items

You are encouraged to bring your child’s favorite blanket, stuffed animal, or toy to help them feel secure and relaxed.

After Surgery

You will be allowed to rejoin your child as soon as they are awake and medically stable for transfer from recovery.

Special Care for Adults with Special Needs

We recognize that individuals who rely on others for daily care require special consideration and support. In addition to the Before My Surgery and Day of Surgery guidelines, please follow the recommendations below to help ensure a smooth experience.

Consent

The legal guardian or holder of Power of Attorney must sign the consent forms for surgery and anesthesia on or before the day of surgery. Please bring written proof of guardianship or Power of Attorney.

Admission

Bring the patient’s recent health history and current medication list to the center. Be sure to follow the same food and drink guidelines outlined in the Before My Surgery section.

Personal Attendant

As with all patients, a parent, legal guardian, or responsible adult must remain at the center from admission through recovery. After discharge, a personal attendant must stay with the patient for 24 hours to ensure their safety and comfort.