The day of surgery can be an anxious and long day. You can stay with your child up until the time they are taken into the operating room and will be reunited with them as soon as possible after surgery.   Your Surgical Nurse Coordinator will have already given you instructions on when and where to arrive. Make sure to follow these instructions and leave plenty of time for travel, parking, and checking in. Directions, parking information and a hospital map can be found here.    Your child will need to stay in the hospital after surgery to recover, so make sure to bring everything you’ll need. If you are going to be staying overnight or for an extended inpatient stay, make sure to pack accordingly. Always label items with your child's name. Here are some packing suggestions:   For your child: Make sure your child is wearing loose fitting, comfortable clothing (for example: pajamas, sweatpants and a sweatshirt) Clothes that button up are preferable Non-slip footwear Robe A change of clothes Toothbrush and toothpaste Hairbrush Any favourite items (such as a toy, movie, iPad or blanket)   For a baby: Sleepers or t-shirts that fasten up in the front Soothers Cups, spoons, bottles Any favourite items (such as a toy or blanket)   For you: Pillow (optional) Personal items as well as any medications you may require A phone charger  Things to help pass the time A list of your questions for the surgeon and nurses   The hospital has: Diapers Food for your child Bedding for children and parents Formula and bottles for babies   When You Arrive Upon arrival at the hospital, go directly to the Special Procedures Unit on the 4th floor of the Teck building (use the elevators directly to your right when you enter the building). When you check in, nursing staff will ask you questions about your child's health and overall condition. It may seem like you are repeating yourself, but rest assured that the surgical team is only trying to gather information to ensure a safe surgery.   Your child will change into a hospital gown and a nurse will check their vital signs. You’ll be asked questions about their health and will need to confirm the last time they had something to eat or drink. The Anesthesiologist will meet with you and explain how your child will fall asleep for the surgery. They may also prescribe medication to help them relax.    You may have to wait a period of time before surgery. Families and children can take advantage of the designated play area which includes video games, movies, toys and books. You can also bring your child’s personal toys, books or iPad to help pass the time. Do not bring food or drinks.   In certain circumstances, your child's surgery may be postponed. Sometimes things happen in the hospital that necessitate a reschedule. This can include medical emergencies, pre-operative concerns and so on. While this can be stressful, it is important to know that this is only done when absolutely necessary. Surgery will not take place if the hospital is unable to provide adequate pre- and post-operative care.   During Surgery  Keep in mind that it is not uncommon for surgery to take longer than expected. While waiting for surgery to complete, some parents choose to remain in the waiting room, while others choose to visit different parts of the hospital or campus.    Within the hospital, there are many areas you can visit to pass the time. You can walk through the outdoor areas, visit the many cafes and restaurants, or take advantage of the Family Support and Resource Centre. Information about the on-site amenities available during your visit can be found on the BC Children’s website. If you need to access support resources while you wait or need to talk to someone, your Surgical Nurse Coordinator can connect you.    You must leave your cell phone ringer on (not on vibrate) so that staff can contact you when the surgery is complete. Because cell phones may not work in all areas of the hospital, it is important to frequently check to make sure you have reception.   After Surgery Once the surgery is complete, you will be called to return to the waiting area. Your child’s surgeon will meet with you to discuss how the procedure went. While every effort is made for you to be able to see your child immediately after surgery, you may have to wait a little while until your child and the team are ready.    Following surgery, the majority of children are transferred to the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit on the 4th floor of the Teck building. This area is staffed by nurses and care professionals who are experienced in caring for children who have undergone surgery. They will monitor your child's condition and assist them as they gradually wake up.   You will be escorted to your child’s bedside once they are settled in. In most cases, one or two parents or adult visitors are permitted. Other children will not be permitted into the unit.   Your child may appear very sleepy, pale and a little puffy after surgery. This is normal. The nurse who is caring for your child will administer medication to help them remain settled, calm and pain free. You may remain at your child’s bedside at all times if you wish. Many families use the bed and reclining chair that are in the room.