PJ’s Corner: When Your Child Needs Surgery

Sponsored by Saint Francis Children's Hospital

An interview with Dr. Barry Berch, Medical Director of Pediatric Surgery, Saint Francis Children’s Hospital

Q: What’s the first thing you’d tell a parent when they find out their child needs surgery?

A: First, recognize that fear is normal. A big part of what we do at a children’s hospital is help put parents and children at ease during a difficult time. We explain what’s about to happen, talk through the surgery and recovery, and help families know what to expect. Everything around us is designed to make children and their parents more comfortable.

Q: What are some common mistakes parents should avoid?

A: One common mistake is assuming it doesn’t matter where a child receives care. Children’s healthcare is profoundly different from adult healthcare. Children’s anatomy, illnesses and surgical conditions are different, so it’s important to seek out pediatricians, pediatric specialists and children’s hospitals that are specifically trained to care for kids.

It’s also important to remember that surgery isn’t just about the surgeon. It takes an entire team, including pediatric anesthesiologists, nurses, surgical staff, child life specialists and recovery teams who care for children every day.

Q: What should parents do when preparing for surgery?

A: Do your due diligence. Make sure you’re going to a children’s healthcare system that’s set up to care for kids. Learn about the credentials and training of the providers caring for your child, and don’t assume every facility provides the same level of pediatric care.

Q: What makes a children’s hospital different?

A: Children’s hospitals have specialized services and equipment designed for patients of every age and size, from newborns to teenagers. One of the most valuable resources is child life services, which help reduce fear and anxiety through play, education and emotional support.

We also have equipment specifically designed for children. Whether it’s IV supplies, anesthesia equipment or surgical instruments, having the right size equipment for every child makes a big difference in their care.

Q: If parents have time to ask questions before surgery, what should they ask?

A: Parents should feel comfortable asking about a surgeon’s training and credentials. Board certification and specialized pediatric training help ensure children receive the best possible care. Children’s healthcare is different enough that it’s important to know the people caring for your child have the right experience.

Q: How is pain managed after surgery?

A: One of the surprising things about children is that they often recover very well. For many surgeries, pain can be managed with simple measures like Tylenol or ibuprofen. Parents being present, holding, swaddling and comforting their children also plays a big role in pain control.

We try to avoid narcotics whenever possible. Most children go home with over-the-counter pain medications rather than prescription narcotics.

Q: What would you like parents to know about recovery after surgery?

A: Recovery is another area where a children’s hospital makes a difference. It’s not just the operation itself but the team of nurses and specialists who teach families how to care for their child afterward. Having people who do this every day helps families feel confident and supports better outcomes.

Q: What’s the one piece of advice you’d leave with parents?

A: Take your child’s health concerns seriously and trust your instincts. Parents know their children, and their observations are incredibly important. Make sure your voice is heard by your child’s healthcare providers, and if surgery is needed, make sure your child is receiving care from a team that specializes in children.