Determine what you need to know about hospital staff to alleviate hospital fears.
When undergoing surgery, your child is often overwhelmed. A new environment paired with new people, and stranger instruments, can be scary. The best way to alleviate fears is to address them. Help your child feel more at ease when undergoing pediatric surgery in Orange County by explaining who is who in the hospital. That way they know who is helping them get better. Here are a few key hospital members to remember.
Anesthesiologist: When having surgery, you’ll likely need medication to help the patient keep anxiety and pain under control. The anesthesiologist is a doctor who specializes in administering medication during surgery to help patients sleep through the surgery. Additionally, they manage pain throughout the surgery.
Surgeon: When in need of surgery, only a surgeon can operate. These doctors have had special training in addition to medical school to allow them to operate. There are various types of surgeons that range from general surgeons who perform a range of procedures to specialists who focus on a specific area of medicine. Pediatric surgeons, for example, specialize in surgery for pediatric patients.
Licensed Practical Nurse: A licensed practical nurse helps to assist patients with various tasks such as bathing, changing, wound care, and obtaining basic medical information.
Registered Nurse: A registered nurse is trained in various procedures such as drawing blood, monitoring a patient’s health condition, and administering medication. These nurses have completed a nursing program and have a state license.
Physical Therapist: A physical therapist is a person that’s trained in helping you recover from an injury using exercises and stretches to help manage pain and improve mobility. After surgery, it’s not uncommon for kids to work with a physical therapist to help recover more quickly.
Occupational Therapist: An occupational therapist is a person that’s trained in helping patients to improve their motor skills to return to regular activities. After surgery, kids may see an occupational therapist to assist in gaining better motor skills.
Social Worker: When in the hospital, you’ll likely interact with a social worker. These people work with patients and their families to help make their time at the hospital as easy as possible by offering emotional support and assisting in coordinating health care.
When it comes to your child’s pediatric surgery in Orange County, ensure that they’re well prepared. Review who’s who in the hospital and get excellent medical care from the right doctors. Contact the Pediatric Surgical Associates for all your pediatric surgical needs. Our pediatric surgeons in Orange County are experts at protecting your kids’ health and wellness!