Children’s and Young People’s Surgical Day Unit
It is very important that you follow the instructions below if your child has had a general anaesthetic so that you can keep them safe until the effects of their anaesthetic have worn off. This can take up to 24 hours.
If you are concerned in any way about your child, please contact us for advice.
- It is normal for your child to be more sleepy than usual for 24 hours after an anaesthetic.
- If they go to the bathroom do not allow them to lock the door in case they need your help.
- Encourage your child to eat and drink normally. If they cannot eat try small amounts of water or diluted cordial frequently to keep them hydrated. If they are not eating and drinking normally after 24 hours, please contact the hospital.
- Sometimes children feel sick or vomit after an operation. If this happens do not give your child any more food or drink for 30 minutes. Then try small sips of water, increasing as they can manage until they are eating and drinking normally.
If your child continues to vomit for 24 hours, or does not pass urine after 8 to 12 hours, please contact us at the hospital.
- Children often have a sore throat after an anaesthetic. Babies may have a different sounding cry. This is normal and will settle over a few days.
- Children can have a sore hand or foot where their cannula (drip) has been in place. There may also be a small bruise. This usually gets better over about a week.
- It is normal to be a bit sore after some operations. You will be given a leaflet about managing pain after surgery and instructions about how to give pain medicines and when. If you are unsure about this or if your child is very uncomfortable after their operation, please contact the hospital.
- Your child should remain at home with a responsible adult for 24 hours after a general anaesthetic. After this time, they can return to school or nursery unless you have been told otherwise by a member of the surgical team.
Who can I contact for advice?
If you are concerned in any way about your child, please contact us for advice.
- Children and Young People’s Surgical Day Unit
Telephone: 01642 854927
(Monday to Friday 7.30am until 19.00pm)
Email: [email protected] - Ward 22
Telephone: 01642 854522 (24 hours)
Patient experience
South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust would like your feedback. If you wish to share your experience about your care and treatment or on behalf of a patient, please contact The Patient Experience Department who will advise you on how best to do this.
This service is based at The James Cook University Hospital but also covers the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton, our community hospitals and community health services.
To ensure we meet your communication needs please inform the Patient Experience Department of any special requirements, for example; braille or large print.
T: 01642 835964
E: [email protected]
The James Cook University Hospital, Marton Road, Middlesbrough, TS4 3BW.
Telephone: 01642 850850
