Cardiovascular Program

We understand that every child is a unique individual. Each child's age, past hospital experiences, temperament and coping techniques can affect how he deals with his upcoming procedure. Once you're at Children's, our staff will help you communicate with your child about her condition as they get to know your child so they can make recommendations based on each individual child.

In addition, this is a good time to create communication between your child and her siblings and friends. It is difficult for young children to grasp the concept of surgery, especially the words "open heart surgery."

Since children develop at different rates and since each child is different, these guidelines may not describe your child exactly, but they will still help guide you.

Newborns to 2 years old: When your child is very young, concentrate on preparing yourself for the hospital. If you feel at ease, your child is usually able to sense this and react in the same way.

2 years old to 3 years old: At this age, children do not understand time in the same way older children and adults do. Talk with the doctors and nurses about how you think your child will manage best in the hospital setting. Consider telling your child about his operation or procedure one or two days before going to the hospital.

3 to 6 years old: At this age, children are beginning to learn about the days of the week and develop a sense of time. However, it is hard for a child to understand why he needs an operation or procedure. Your child may worry that he has done something wrong. Reassure him that the hospital stay is about having something fixed and is never a punishment. Use simple, short explanations. Tell a 3- or 4-year-old child about an operation or procedure one or two days before going to the hospital, and a 5- or 6-year-old-child three to five days ahead of time.

7 to 11 years old: At this age, a child is able to understand the reason for a hospital stay or procedure. You may want to tell your child about her operation or procedure a week before going to the hospital. This will give your child plenty of time to ask questions and to talk about any worries she may have about going.

12 years old to adult: At this age, it is best to include your child, teen or adult from the very beginning of the process. Encourage him to ask questions and to talk about his worries about the hospital or their medical care. Most children are struggling for independence from their parents while at the same time seeking their support. You may want to ask your teenager how you can help him through his hospital stay or procedure.