Your child has had general anesthesia and therefore may be more sleepy or irritable following the procedure. The following guidelines may be helpful in caring for your child post-operatively.
Fluids and diet
Post-operative patients are prone to dehydration, so it is necessary that you encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids such as clear juices, water, soda and Gatorade. If no nausea or vomiting is present, you may progress your child from clear liquids to his/her normal diet as tolerated or as specified by your doctor.
Medications
Give only the medication prescribed by your child's doctor, or you may give Tylenol. When giving Tylenol, use the normal dose you usually give your child.
Activities
It is best to take your child home and let him/her rest for today. For his safety and comfort, an adult should be present at all times for the first 24 hours following surgery/anesthesia.
Operative site
Keep the dressing clean and dry. Do not change the dressing unless you have been instructed to do so. (See your doctor's specific instructions)
Specific complications to watch for:
- Fever over 101 Fahrenheit by mouth
- Pain not relieved by the medications ordered
- Increased swelling, redness or unusual drainage around operative site
- Persistent nausea and vomiting
- If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your doctor through his or her office.