Your surgery · Step 06
If your child is having a procedure.
Pediatric-specific guidance for families, including fasting, comfort items, and consent.
The information below applies only if this facility treats pediatric patients, pending the confirmation above.
Fasting for children
Fasting times for children often differ from adult guidance and depend on age and the type of procedure.
Explaining it to your child
- Use simple, honest words for their age. Avoid words like "shot" or "cut" if it increases fear; ask our team for age-appropriate language.
- Let them know a parent or guardian will be nearby as much as possible.
- Bring a comfort item such as a favorite stuffed animal or blanket.
Who may accompany your child
Ask us about our policy for a parent or guardian accompanying a child to pre-op and recovery.
Consent and guardianship
A parent or legal guardian must provide consent. Bring documentation of guardianship if you are not the child's biological or adoptive parent.
Car seat requirement
An appropriate, properly installed car seat is required for the ride home for children who need one by Texas law. We cannot discharge a child without one.
