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Preparing for the Fundoplication
If your child is scheduled for a fundoplication, there are many things to be aware of and for which to plan. There are things you can do ahead of time to make your stay more comfortable and to help be aware of what is going on. Our son had the fundoplication, and I have talked with many moms of children who have gone through this. It is my hope that by reading and informing yourself, you will be better prepared than I was, and hopefully you can be more confident during this time.
Questions to be asked and to be clear on beforehand:
-What type of fundoplication is being performed?
-Will this be an open or a laproscopic procedure?
-How long is the expected surgery going to last?
Ask what to expect pre-operatively:
-How will my child be sedated? What medications are used?
-How long will I be allowed to stay with him/her?
-How and when will you contact me?
-Where should I wait in case I am needed?
What should you expect post-operatively? (I was unprepared for how difficult this would be.)
-How will I be notified that the surgery is finished?
-How many people can go to the post-op area? Decide on who.
-What kind of medications will be administered post-operatively?
-When moved to a hospital room, will we share a room or have our own?
-Can both parents stay with the child?
-Is there a hotel or an inn nearby that caters to the families?
-Do they have DVD players or movies available? If not, can you bring your own?
-What kind of balloons are NOT allowed in the hospital?
These are things to keep in mind. I know that there are many more things to consider.
When preparing for the hospital stay, please make sure you are aware of these.
-You are your child's advocate. You will need to be outspoken in getting your child cared for. Hospitals are very busy. Be your child's voice.
-If your child is in a lot pain, do speak up. We took the nursing student's words and our son didn't get the pain medications he needed because of this. The night RN came in and was furious because our son had been suffering. It was very sad and could have been prevented.
-Know with whom you are dealing. Is it the surgeon or the surgeon on call? Just know who is in charge of your child's care. This can be confusing and change at different times of the day.
-Bring many things for your child to do depending on his/her age. For infants, bring infant toys, books, and movies. If you have a toddler, then puzzles, small toy sets, movies, and games are good, also. For older children, some ideas include coloring books, crayons, crossword puzzles, movies, and video games. For children of all ages, their favorite blanket, pillow, stuffed animal friend (or a new one) are very comforting.
-Don't forget to bring things that will make your time easier, as well. Instead of looking fashionable, go for comfortable! I was walking the hospital in my jammies. I do not regret it! Don't forget the must haves; undies, socks, pajamas, hairbrush, toothbruth, and personal necessities. Bring these items for your child as well!
-Don't forget addresses and phone numbers.
Please visit our Fundoplication Forum to discuss this with other parents!
Written by: Eli's Mom, Erin
Read more about Reflux Information:
Considering Fundoplication - The Anti-Reflux Surgery,
Questions to ask Potential Surgeon,
Laparoscopic Fundoplication Surgery Procedure
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