Many hospitals making changes to accommodate children’s surgeries

When children need surgery, this can be a terrifying experience for a parent, especially when decisions must be made as to where the surgical procedure will take place, and who will be performing the procedure. When it comes to pediatric surgical needs, there may be little information that parents can rely on when it comes to choosing the best venue and doctor for their needs. Moreover, many facilities focus on general surgical needs, (i.e. adults with a number of maladies) and therefore do not have the proper instruments, facilities and staff to handle pediatric surgeries. Children, unlike adults, need special attention when it comes to anesthesia, x-rays and post-op care, and they tend not to receive this in hospitals geared toward treating adults.

Because of this, a number of hospitals are implementing programs to accommodate such procedures, and to give parents as much information and reassurance they need to choose the hospital to handle pediatric procedures. Additionally, studies show that fewer complications arise when children undergo surgeries in hospitals and clinics that are equipped for young children.

The levels will correspond as follows:

Level One – This means that a hospital will provide comprehensive care for pediatric procedures involving children and newborns.

Level Two – This will involve advanced surgical care for children with moderate risk conditions.

Level Three – This will involve low risk surgical procedures in children at least six months or older.

In essence, these moves fall in line with the duty that hospitals and physicians have when treating children. By recognizing the differences in care that are needed, they can ostensibly meet this duty and avoid the possibility of breaching it and leading to a child’s injury.