Children & Special Needs Adults | Pocono Ambulatory Surgery Center

Special care for children

We give children the extra care they need in an unfamiliar setting.

Please refer to the guidelines outlined in the Before Surgery Guide and Day of Surgery Guide for further tips, as well as the guidelines on this page for children. Following these instructions may prevent delays or cancellation of the surgery.

Food and drink

For children younger than two years old, they may consume:

Two hours before arrival for surgery: clear liquids (such as water and juice without pulp)
Four hours before arrival for surgery: breast milk
Eight hours before arrival for surgery: formula

Children older than two years old, follow the adult instructions for food and drink before surgery.

Parental care

We require at least one parent to remain in the center during the surgery and recovery. Please do not bring other young children along. If your child’s surgery is scheduled near noon, you may want to bring a lunch for yourself while you are waiting.

Personal comforts

Please bring your child’s favorite blanket, stuffed animal or toy for added security.

After surgery

You will be able to be with your child as soon as he/she is awake and medically safe for transfer after recovery.

Special care for special needs adults

We understand that loved ones who depend upon others for daily living require special attention. Besides the guidelines outlined in the Before Surgery Guide and Day of Surgery Guide, the following tips, will help make care for these adults easier:

Consent

The legal guardian/power of attorney needs to sign the consent for surgery and anesthesia on or before the day of surgery.

For admission

Please bring the patient’s recent health history and medication information. Be certain to follow the food and drink rules in the Before Surgery Guide.

Personal attendant

As with other patients, special needs patients require a parent, legal guardian or other responsible adult to remain at the center from admission through recovery. A personal attendant will be required to stay with the patient for 24 hours after discharge.