Monday, February 27, 2012

Van's First Surgery

On Friday, Van had his surgery to repair his communicating hydrocele. After arriving at the hospital, we first met with the nurse practitioner. Van was asked to change into special hospital pajamas. The nurse checked his vitals and discussed with us the events leading up to surgery. At this point he began to feel a bit unsettled.
Once we finished with the nurse practitioner we walked down the hall to the surgery waiting room. The room was filled with toys, books, and movies.
We met with a child life specialist who brought Van actual medical equipment to play with. He was even given a special stuffed doll to color and take with him into the operating room. He chose to ride to the O.R. in a wagon, so he was given some medicine to help settle his nerves during the separation.
Surgery was quick and easy, lasting only thirty minutes. During that time Spencer and I anxiously waited for the doctor's return. He said that everything went well and that Van did great. I was able to go back to the post-op room while he was waking up. Spencer met up with us a few minutes later and we all waited for discharge.
After reviewing the discharge instructions with the nurse, we wheeled Van out of the hospital and took him home. He was given a special blanket and a barf bucket (which was needed once we got home). Van was incredibly brave and took it all in stride. I couldn't have been more proud of him. The very next day he was back to normal, playing and teasing his little brother.

7 comments:

AJ said...

So so glad everything went well. Hugs to you and Van.

Sarah said...

I'm glad it all went well!

Tracy said...

Aww, he looks so sad and lost. I need to see a picture of him the next day laughing and playing with Gus.

Ron said...

It is good to have these events so well documented.

Ardie said...

I want to pick him up and give him a big hug!

Meg and Sammy said...

Glad to hear it all went well, Ash! What sweet pics (:

Anonymous said...

I know I don't know you... But we are about to go through the same thing with out 1yo... Finding this gave me a but of peace knowing that your little one was back to himself and playing so soon.... Thank you!!!!!