Before having surgery, a doctor will explain everything to you (and your parents) about what’s involved. You or your parents will then sign a consent form which means that you’ve understood what is going to happen and that you agree to have the treatment.
going into hospital
Depending on how close to the hospital you live, you will usually go into hospital the night before your operation. If you’re having your op late in the afternoon then they might let you come in very early on the same day if you live near enough. It’s likely that you will have had various tests before being admitted to hospital, like blood tests and a chest x-ray. You might also have had an ultrasound, CT, MRI or PET scans.
To make sure you don’t feel too sick after your op, the doctors will tell you not to eat or drink anything for several hours before the surgery. This is known as ‘nil by mouth’ and it means you can’t have anything at all, not even water. Some hospitals have ice chips that you can suck every now and then to keep your mouth fresh.
Before your operation, you will see either the surgeon or one of his team. Remember you can ask them any questions you have about what your surgery involves or you can tell them if you have any worries about it. You’ll also probably see an anaesthetist (the doctor who puts you into a deep sleep and keeps a close eye on you during the operation).
what will I be wearing?
Before you go to the operating theatre, you will have to get changed into a surgical gown (it looks a bit like a back to front dressing gown!). You might also need to wear surgical stockings to help prevent blood clots forming. The nurse looking after you will talk you through it and make sure you have everything that you need.
I have changed, what’s next?
You may be given some medication just before you are taken to the operating theatre. This is called a ‘pre-med’ and might be a tablet or an injection. It’ll help you feel relaxed and maybe a bit sleepy.
When it’s time for your op, a person from the theatre will come to collect you and you’ll be wheeled to the operating department on your bed. A nurse will come with you and it’s usually OK for you to take a parent or a friend with you (as far as the outside of the theatre).
