Without knowing what your surgery is for, it's tricky to tell you much about the operation itself.
It would be a good idea for you to chat to your
doctor. They'll be happy to answer all your questions, explain what the
problem is and tell you what they plan to do.
Surgery and anaesthetics
Some
operations are done when you are awake. But a lot of surgery is usually
done while you are asleep. This is called being under general
anaesthetic.
General anaesthetic is brilliant because it puts you
in such a deep sleep that you don't feel any pain when you're having
the operation done.
Special help
The general anaesthetic will be given to you by a doctor called an
anaesthetist.
They will come and see you before your operation and explain everything that is going to happen.
You'll be able to ask questions, and tell them if there is anything that you are especially worried about.
Before the anaesthetist gives you the anaesthetic, they may give you something called asedative.
This is usually a pill or liquid which will help you to relax before
you have the anaesthetic.
Some people feel sleepy when they have the
sedative and others get giggly. Some just fall asleep.
Taking a sedative makes the whole experience less frightening.
While you're asleep
The
anaesthetists will also look after you while you're asleep. They will
check your breathing, heartbeat, temperature, and blood pressure to make
sure you stay safe and comfortable.
Your nurses will help you prepare before you have
the general anaesthetic. You may have to change into a hospital gown and
have a wash using a strong soap.
When you're ready, you will be taken to the place where they do operations called theatres.
Staying calm
Sometimes general
anaesthetic is given to you as a special air, which you breathe in
through a clear plastic face mask. It will make you feel very relaxed
and you will eventually fall fast asleep.
There is no need to be scared of this mask, but make
sure you tell your doctor if you feel frightened or nervous. They can
reassure you.
Needles
Sometimes the anaesthetic is given to you through a needle and small plastic tube instead of using a mask.
The needle usually goes into the back of your hand
but it doesn't hurt because they will numb the area with some special
cream beforehand.
When you wake up
You will not wake up until the operation is all over. The drugs make
you sleep very deeply so you will not feel or see anything until it is
all finished.
When you wake up, your parents will be allowed into the room to see you.
Operations
Anyone who has an operation is having it to make them
feel better. Doctors, nurses and surgeons are all trained to make sure
they help you without hurting you or scaring you.
It helps to
remember you will be in the best possible hands and your health is the
most important thing to everyone treating you.
