Preoperative Pre-Admission Testing
Most children scheduled for surgery (even open-heart surgery) do not need to be admitted to the hospital before the day of the operation, but paperwork and testing must be done in preparation for their hospitalization.
Pre-admission testing is done within 72 hours before surgery (usually the day before). It includes a chest X-ray, an electrocardiogram (ECG) bloodwork, a urinalysis, and a history and physical exam. You will also meet with the anesthesiologist who will be caring for your child in the operating room.
An echocardiogram may be done on that day as well. After testing has been completed, a hospital tour can be arranged by the Cardiothoracic Surgery nurse practitioners. These tours are usually given by one of our Child Life Specialists.
Where is pre-admission testing done?
The first stop for the day is the Test Referral Center, second floor, Location C, for bloodwork. This is followed by a visit to Radiology, first floor, Location B, for a chest xray. The remainder of the tests are done in Same Day Surgery, third floor, Location B.
Preparing for pre-admission testing
No special preparations are needed for pre-admission testing unless you are notified otherwise.
How long will pre-admission testing take?
Pre-admission testing usually takes about four hours. A Child Life specialist can help provide activities for children during the waiting time.
Most of the rooms in Same Day Surgery have televisions, and some have VCRs as well. You can bring videos from home to watch if you wish to do so (as long as they are rated G).
Will my child be admitted to the hospital the night before surgery?
Most children are able to spend the night before surgery at home. If your child needs to spend the night in the hospital, however, the admission arrangements will be made with you in advance.
Before leaving the hospital after pre-admission testing you will be given specific instructions regarding when to return on the day of surgery and when to stop meals, liquids and medications.
Revised 9/06
