Pediatric Pre-Surgical Tour

Surgery is generally an unexpected event in the life of a child, and can be a stressful time for both children and their families. However, appropriate education can alleviate many of the fears associated with the hospital environment.

The pediatric pre-surgical tour offered at Advocate Lutheran General Children's Hospital was developed to help minimize the anxiety and stress associated with surgery for both children and their families by preparing them for the experience of having surgery. It allows children anticipating surgery and their family members to familiarize themselves with the surgical environment, including:

• physical location and layout of the areas
• normal routines and expectations
• terminology
• surgical staff

It also provides ample opportunity for children and family members to ask questions or talk about concerns they may have.

Touring the Pediatric Surgical Unit
The 60-minute tour begins in the ambulatory surgical waiting area located at the east end of the hospital's main floor lobby. Tour participants will:

• view a short video depicting a child's surgical experience
• visit the surgical suite, including the operating room, recovery room and waiting areas
• tour the pediatric intensive care and pediatric units, when applicable
• touch and experience monitoring equipment such as blood pressure cuffs, pulse oximetry probes, EKG leads and an anesthesia mask
• enjoy a medical play session—a therapeutic activity that allows children to role play and act out their understanding of medical procedures or surgery—supervised by the child life department in the Lutheran General Children's Health Resource Education Center
• have their questions answered and concerns addressed
• receive a "goodie bag" (for each child participant)
• enjoy light refreshments

Tour Schedule
Tours are offered Saturday mornings and Tuesday afternoons. Special accommodations may be made for an alternate time.

Participation Requirements
This program is offered free of charge to children ages 3-9, who are scheduled to have surgery at Lutheran General Children's Hospital, and their family members. Registration is required.

To Register
Or for more information, call:
1-800-3-ADVOCATE (1-800-323-8622)

Click here for a printable Pediatric Pre-Surgical Tour brochure.
Click here for a printable Pediatric Surgery brochure.