Preparing for Surgery

Thank you for choosing Cincinnati Children’s for your child’s care. We believe the family and staff are partners, working together in the best interest of your child.

Preoperative Program

We recommend all patients participate in a preoperative program to help families prepare for surgery. Learn more about visiting the Peña Colorectal Center.

Bioethics Consultation

Patients, families and healthcare providers may face difficult decisions involving ethical principles or religious and cultural beliefs. For help, contact the Bioethics Committee team. The lines of communication are open 24 hours a day, and consultation is free.

Before Surgery

• Preparing for Surgery 
• Eating and Drinking Before Surgery and Diagnostic Tests 
• Preparing Everyone for Surgery 
• What to Tell Your Child Before a Procedure 
• What to Expect on Surgery Day 
• Parent Tip: How to Help Reduce Your Child’s Anxiety 

After Surgery

• What to Expect After Your Child’s Procedure 
• Parent Tip: What to Ask Your Doctor Before You Go Home 

Anesthesia Information

• Anesthesia and the Induction Room 
• Parent Tip: Talking with Your Child About Anesthesia 

Teens and Patients Over 18

• Tips for Teens Having a Procedure 
• For Patients Over 18