How to Prepare a Child for Ear Tube Surgery

You've made the decision to proceed with ear tube surgery for your child. Now, it's time to prepare your child for the procedure. While this procedure is relatively common and doesn't typically take more than 20 minutes to complete, it does require anesthesia. Let your child know what to expect in advance to minimize fears, especially if she will be separated from you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Visit the facility where the surgery will be performed in advance. Allow your child to play with the toys in the waiting area and talk to the staff. This may minimize stress of the unknown.
2. Talk to your child about the surgery in advance. Show your child a picture of the ear and talk about what the doctor will do. Explain how this will help the ear hurt less.
3. Try to keep your child healthy prior to the procedure. If your child develops a cold or congestion, the surgery may need to be cancelled.
4. Pack a security blanket or toy if your child has one. Also, bring a few toys or a special new toy to keep your child occupied while waiting for surgery.
5. Bring special drinks for your child. Sometimes drinks are allowed up to two hours before surgery. You will definitely want a sippy cup or bottle with favorite drinks to help calm a young child as he comes out of the anesthesia.
6. Bathe your child the night before the procedure, and be sure to wash her hair. You may not be able to get your child's ears wet for several days.
7. Dress your child in PJs or a comfy outfit for the procedure. You may even let your child purchase some special pajamas.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to find an outpatient pediatric surgery center, which caters to children. You are more likely to be allowed to stay with your child until he falls asleep in this type of facility.
• Bring a portable DVD player to keep your child distracted before the procedure and it might help calm your child as she comes out of anesthesia.
• Bring the pacifier if you child takes one. Children are often irritable and cry as they come out of the anesthesia.
• Talk to your doctor about using aspirin or Motrin before surgery. Some doctors don't want your child to have this as it can increase bleeding.