Just before surgery, all food and liquids should be withheld. The doctor will tell you when to begin. The child may need to have blood drawn for tests. You may encounter the following procedures and equipment during the child's stay. A stethoscope is used to listen to the heart and lungs.
Blood pressure is taken with a cuff around the arm.
Several samples may be needed. Typically, three to five sticky pads are placed on different parts of the child's body. A tube placed in the child's vein for giving medicine or liquids. It will be capped or have tubing connected to it. Children feel safer in the hospital with their parents nearby.