Info
RxSurgery
A child having surgery can be stressful for the entire family, whether it is planned or unexpected. We find families who know what to expect are often less anxious and better prepared for their hospital experience.
Web Content
AHS Info
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Alberta Children's Hospital: Your Child's Surgery
Information about what to expect and how to prepare for a child's surgery at Alberta Children's Hospital is found on this page.
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MyHealth.Alberta: Your Child's Surgery
Created in partnership with the Government of Alberta and Alberta Health Services. This page gives parents information on how to prepare your child, before surgery timeline, your time at the hospital, going home, and other resources.
Other Helpful Websites
Note: These resources have general information and ideas for preparing for a surgery. As these resources are not from Alberta Children's Hospital, some of the details, especially about the hospital space may be different.
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AboutKidsHealth
The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto has information about talking to your child about surgery and preparing for surgery and hospitalization.
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Kids Health: Helping Kids Get Ready for Surgery
This article written for parents provides guidance for how to help prepare a child for an upcoming procedure.
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Rady Children's Hospital Autism Discovery Institute: Hospital Visit Tips
Preparing your child for a hospital visit can reduce anxiety. This page has a tool kit and social stories to help you and your child prepare.
rchsd.org/programs-services/autism-discovery-institute/hospital-visit-tips/social-stories/
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Children's Hospital of Orange County: After Surgery Guide
It is important to follow all of the instructions provided by the patient's healthcare team after a surgery. Caring for a patient after surgery is important. This guide from Children's Hospital of Orange County can help parents prepare for what to expect after surgery. It should never replace the patient's physician's at-home care instructions.
Book List
These resources are available to borrow in the Family Library. You can also check with your local library to see if they are available.
You can download, print, and share this PDF, or our Destiny Collection List.
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Franklin is a turtle who must have an operation to fix his shell. The book explains the hospital experience well and addresses the fear and questions many children have about the hospital. Recommended for ages 3-10.
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This book was written by a pediatric anesthesiologist. She tells the story of a boy named Iggy who must have his tonsils out. The pictures are a great mix of cartoon images and real photos in the hospital. Recommended for ages 6-12.
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It is time for Julianna to have her tonsils taken out. With the support of her friends, her family, books and toys, she knows exactly what to expect. Recommended for ages 3-10.
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Harry Goes to the Hospital : A Story for Children About What It's Like to Be in the Hospital
Harry is sick and needs to go to the hospital. He is scared of all the new people, needles, and staying the night in a strange place. This story of a hospital stay answers questions and helps children explore their feelings. Recommended for ages 4-12.
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When Molly Was in the Hospital : A Book for Brothers and Sisters of Hospitalized Children
This sensitive book shows the viewpoint of an older sibling when her younger sister needs to go the hospital for an operation. Recommended for ages 3-12.
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Curious George Goes to the Hospital
George has eaten a puzzle piece and needs to go the hospital to have the piece removed. Children will learn about hospitals in this fun book. Recommended for ages 3-8.
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Your Child in the Hospital : A Practical Guide for Parents
This book written for parents offers advice for coping with a child’s hospitalization. It includes easy to read tips on preparing your child and handling procedures without trauma.
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Your Child in the Hospital : A Practical Guide for Parents
This book written for parents offers advice for coping with a child’s hospitalization. It includes easy to read tips on preparing your child and handling procedures without trauma.
Contributors
Thank you to our friends from Calgary Public Library and Pediatric Child Life Services at the Alberta Children's Hospital for their contributions.
Current as of: March 20, 2024