Things to consider as you prepare for your child's procedure...
Here are some lessons learned after my son's broken arm was repaired at the Moncton Hospital:
1) Insist with the surgeon that the child will be given sedative prior to being removed from you. I've had it done both ways and believe me it was a much easier transition already having the child in a happy place.
2) NEVER leave the recovery waiting room, not even for coffee. It never fails it they say it's going to be 2 hours, they will be looking for you in 20 minutes.
3) Always insist on being in recovery when they wake up. Most times they will not look for you unless the child is crying hysterically.
4) More often than not, they will be sick from the anesthetic. No matter how much they beg, don't get them a sprinkle donut from Timmy's. And if they did wear you down and you relented, have a bucket handy.
5) Bring at least 3 sets of jammies per night in the hospital, see point below.
6) Even if your child is potty training, always bring many diapers/pull-up, especially if the child is on an IV. It's no fun having to change a bed in the middle of the night with a child who has a broken limb.
7) Never opt for the pain meds via a needle in the thigh unless you enjoy seeing your child pinned down.
8) Bring a portable DVD player with headphones, pediatric units can be noisy and depressing.
9) Bring extra patience and warm blankets for both you and child and don't plan on getting much sleep.
Tracey, mother of 2 boys