Preparing your child
What to expect at the first visit, for scans and on the day of the operation.
Your first visit
- Most families are referred by a GP or paediatrician. Please check whether your medical aid requires a referral.
- Bring the referral letter, previous reports and scans (discs or links), your child's Road-to-Health booklet for babies, your medical aid card and ID.
- Consultations are at Room 403, Netcare Unitas Hospital, Centurion, or the Private Suites, First Floor, Nelson Mandela Children's Hospital, 6 Jubilee Road, Parktown. Please check which rooms your appointment is at (directions).
- Write your questions down beforehand. Both parents or caregivers are welcome.
- If surgery is recommended, the options, benefits and risks are explained so that you can make an informed decision.
MRI and CT scans
An MRI scan takes longer than a CT scan and needs your child to lie very still. Babies and young children often need sedation or a general anaesthetic for an MRI, and you will be told beforehand how long your child should go without food and drink. Older children can often manage while awake, especially if they know what to expect. A parent can usually stay with the child until they are asleep or settled. Fasting and arrival instructions for MRI, CT and surgery are the same at Netcare Unitas Hospital and Nelson Mandela Children's Hospital; the rooms will give you the times that apply to your child's appointment.
Talking to your child
Children cope better when they are told the truth in words suited to their age. Explain simply why they are going to hospital and what will happen, and let them bring a favourite toy or blanket. Younger children need only a day or two of warning; older children and teenagers may want to be part of the discussion.
Admission and the day of the operation
- Operations take place at Netcare Unitas Hospital or Nelson Mandela Children's Hospital. You will be told which hospital, when and where to arrive, and when your child must stop eating and drinking. Please follow these instructions closely, as the operation may be postponed for safety if they are not followed.
- The anaesthetist will see you and your child before the operation.
- A parent can usually accompany your child into the anaesthetic room.
- Parents can generally stay overnight at both Netcare Unitas Hospital and Nelson Mandela Children's Hospital. Parents cannot sleep in the intensive care unit (ICU), but the team aims to accommodate them in the paediatric ward where possible.
- After the operation Dr Labuschagne will speak to you about how it went.