171 Ashley Ave.
Charleston, SC 29425
843-792-1414
800-424-MUSC
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Scrub Club
Scrub Club, our preoperative tour is a fun way for children and their families to learn more about having day surgery.
Children often have fears and misunderstandings about their operation. Worries about pain, separation and fantasies about what will occur all are common. For these reasons, it is important to help children understand what to expect in a way that is not scary and appropriate for his/her age.
When faced with new experiences, most children need the chance to explore and to express feelings. Talking with children about surgery and showing them what will happen can help them feel happier and more in control.
Who:
Scrub Club tours are open to all pediatric patients, parents and siblings.
When:
By appointment
Where:
Tours begin on the first floor of Rutledge Tower in the ambulatory surgery waiting room
To make reservations, please call Jennifer Redfern at (843) 792-2466 or Betsy McMillan at (843) 792-7065.
Preparing Your Child for Surgery
The doctor has told you that your child needs an operation. Parents are an important part of this experience. However, many parents are unsure of how to talk to their child about what will happen. Others believe that the information will scare the child. However, most children cope best if they can learn about what will happen and ask questions.
Prepare yourself by discussing all your questions and concerns with your child's doctor. It is normal to feel nervous. However, your child (even infants) can sense your concerns. This may make your child more anxious. The more you know about what to expect, the better you will feel.
Prepare your child for what part of their body will be fixed and what they will see and feel. Use easy words that your child will understand.
Reassure your child that you will be with him in the hospital and that you will all go home together
Encourage your child to bring a favorite stuffed animal or security item. This can go with your child to the operating room.
Read stories about going to the hospital and play with pretend doctor's kits. Listen or watch for any concerns or misunderstandings your child might have.
What Happens at a Scrub Club Tour?
During the tour, age approiate information and suggestions for coping will be offered. Your child will be able to see and touch medical equipment and ask questions. These hands on activities make the hospital visit more familiar and friendly for children and families.
You and your child will meet some of the nurses, anesthesia staff and the child life specialist. You will tour the preoperative area and your child may be able to take a ride through the operating room area and recovery room.
The goal of the Scrub Club tour is to prepare your child for her/his day in ambulatory surgery. This often helps both children and parents to feel more relaxed and comfortable on surgery day.
When you join our Scrub Club, your child will receive the following:
- An operating room mask and booties
- A popsicle and drink
- Stickers
- A Scrub Club certificate with your child's photo
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