Children’s and Young People’s Surgical Day Unit
Are there any complications I need to look out for at home?
It is normal for the ears to discharge clear or bloodstained fluid for a few days after the operation.
The outer ear may be cleaned with cotton wool and warm water but do not use cotton buds.
If the ears become painful, smelly or discharge pus there may be an infection and you need to contact your GP or the Children and Young People’s Surgical Day Unit.
What about managing pain?
If your child has a mild earache, which is common, you should give them pain-relieving medication such as paracetamol or ibuprofen at the dose instructed on the bottle. DO NOT give your child more than the stated doses. The pain usually settles in 24-72 hours.
What about washing or bathing?
To help you with this you can place a small amount of Vaseline onto a cotton wool ball and place it into your child’s ear (s) when bathing or hair washing.
Can my child go swimming?
Swimming can be restarted 4 weeks after the operation. We advise using ear plugs and a hat or swimming headband. Your child should not swim underwater or dive into the pool.
When can my child go back to nursery or school?
We advise your child to return to school two days after the operation.
Follow up
The surgeon will decide when your child needs to be seen again and this will be written on your discharge letter. The appointment date will be sent in the post.
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
Monday to Friday, 7.30am until 19.00pm
Telephone: 01642 854927
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
