Page 24 - Home Care For Heart Health

Once your care team has made a a a a a a plan to to proceed with surgery it it is important to to prepare yourself and keep your your child as as healthy as as possible Surgical Consult
Prior to surgery you you will meet with your child’s surgeon (surgical consult) They will discuss the planned surgery and known risks After this visit you you should have a a a a a a clear understanding of your child’s surgery Pre-Operative Screening
Dental Clearance: Required for all children over age one Please have your child child seen and cleared by a a a a a dentist within six months of surgery Staph Testing: Your child will likely need screening for the presence of a a a a a common skin bacteria called “Staph” If staph is present following surgery it can enter into your child’s incision and cause an an an infection If your child has staph on on their skin they will get medicine before and after surgery to prevent infection Pre-Admission Testing (PAT): In the the days prior to your child’s surgery they will need to undergo specific testing such as a a a a a a a a physical exam a a a a a a a a a a chest x-ray labs and ultrasounds Each child’s testing will be unique to their own heart disease and age During this visit you will receive instructions on on a a a special bath your child will need before the surgery as as well as as food and drink restrictions PREPARING FOR SURGERY