fontan on june 10th for peter and a lot of questions!

[gayle.pete]

We are scheduled for june 10th for Peter's fontan to be done. I am nervous since the last 2 times we scheduled surgery exactly one week before the scheduled date Peter ended up needing emergency surgery. I've never done a pre-op visit, I don't know how to explain to a 3 year old that he is going to the hospital. You would think with this being our 3rd surgery we would be well aquainted with the procedure of things but I'm not. Any suggestions on what to bring, what to tell peter, how to prepare him for the surgery? Also I have a new baby when Peter is in his own room will I be allowed to have my baby with me now that the flu restrictions are supposed to be removed? Help! Give me your recommendations.

Gayle (mother to Peter HRHS and Jeremy Heart healthy)

[busyhoneybee]

I know that with our daughter's fontan I was able to keep my new baby with me overnight when she was on the floor because I was nursing her. It might depend on the nurse, but I can't hurt to even call ahead and ask.

I think just talking to him is the biggest thing. Nothing can really prepare him for what is going to happen. I know that I tried books, and picture from previous surgeries, I had new toys and movies for her when she came out of it, and of course the special things to remind them of home - the favorite blanket, stuffed animal or binky....what ever they use for comfort. Best of luck!!

[Tiff-BAV,AS,PDA]

Hi Gayle,
I just wanted to let you know of something that might help you, your husband, and peter prepare a little better for surgery. I am not sure if you are in state or not but if you are you can contact the Child Life department at PCMC and request to set up a P.O.P. class for you, your husband, and your son. This class is a pre-operational preparation class that is offered by the Child Life Specialists. They are trained to work with children and families of all different ages in preparing them for what they are going to experience the day of surgery and it the coming days/weeks after, during recovery. This is usually done a few days before the surgery for children who are Peter's age and many families have said it was very beneficial for their children and them.
I actually am an adult member with a CHD, and I just graduated last week with my bachelors, I hope to work as a Child Life Specialist at PCMC soon.
I hope this helps, good luck!
Tiff (BAV,AS,PDA)