We give children the extra care they need in an unfamiliar setting. To help ease apprehension, parents are welcome to bring a child scheduled for surgery for a Peek-a-Boo Tour of the CHHSC. The staff of takes pleasure in meeting the children and establishing a relationship with them prior to surgery. Please call CHHSC at 304.523.1885 to schedule a tour.
Reviewing these guidelines may prevent delays or cancellation of your child's surgery:
Unless otherwise instructed by the surgeon, children must not eat or drink anything after midnight before their arrival. Please do not allow them to chew gum, suck on candy or swallow toothpaste before surgery.
Please bring your child's favorite blanket, stuffed animal or toy for added security. If your child requires a bottle or special drinking cup, please bring that with you as well. Give it to the nurse before surgery so that your child will have it after surgery.
You will be able to be with your child as soon as he/she is awake and medically safe for transfer after recovery.
We understand that loved ones who depend upon others for daily living require special attention. Reviewing the general information about surgery at the CHHSC, along with the information below, may make caring for a patient with special needs a little easier.
Please bring any walkers, post-operative crutches, hearing aids or other equipment with you.
The legal guardian must sign the consent for surgery and anesthesia on or before the day of surgery. If the patient is a ward of the state, has a durable power of attorney, or is in foster care and the legal guardian cannot be in attendance, then a copy of the court order designating who is the legal guardian and a copy of a picture ID must be brought to the facility before phone permission can be obtained.
If the patient is currently residing in or under the care of another healthcare facility, please bring the patient's recent health history, medication information and phone number to contact the attending healthcare provider. Be certain to follow the fasting guidelines before surgery.
Like all other patients, special needs patients must have a parent, legal guardian or other responsible adult remain at the Surgery Center from admission through recovery. A personal attendant must stay with the patient for 24 hours after discharge.