Do the following on the day before surgery.
Confirm arrival time and fasting instructions
The hospital will let you know what time to be at the hospital to register, where to go to check in, and give you instructions on eating and drinking before surgery. It’s very important that you follow these instructions for your child’s safety and to avoid the surgery being delayed or cancelled.
Be planned and prepared
Make sure you are planned and prepared the day before your child’s surgery:
- Make a list of all the medicines your child takes, including over-the-counter medicines like vitamins and herbal supplements. If you need help with the list, ask your pharmacy for a printout or use Medication Lists and Tools to keep track of your child’s medicine.
- Review any instructions you were given about when to give your child any medicines they need on the day of surgery.
- If your child has a fever or flu-like symptoms, call your surgeon’s office as soon as possible to let them know.
- Plan on where to park or plan your trip using public transit.
- Plan where you will stay if you are coming in from out of town.
What to pack
On the day of surgery, bring only what you and your child need for the first 24 hours in the hospital, and only what you can carry. This includes:
- your child’s provincial healthcare card and birth certificate or passport
- guardianship papers for the child (if this applies)
- all forms you were asked to fill out for your child’s surgery
- a list of all the medicines your child takes
- important medicine that your child needs for the first 24 hours so they can take their medicines when they need to
- any medical equipment or supplies that your child needs during their stay
- books, games, and other items to keep your child busy while you wait
- personal items that your child may need during their hospital stay
- your own personal items and medicines if you are staying overnight with your child
See our suggested packing list.
