9. Tips for Parents After Spinal Fusion

The following are suggestions from families of children or teens who have undergone spinal fusion:

Bring a pad of paper and a pen to take notes and list questions you may have for the doctor. Doctors usually visit in the morning and during the course of a day, you may forget some of your questions.
Bring a journal to record what happens during the hospital stay and your thoughts. This is a great stress reliever and opportunity for your child to look back on his or her experience.
If your child has long hair, braid it before surgery.
Bring a camera.
Bring all needed phone numbers to the hospital.
Set up a "calling tree" to help you update others about your child’s progress. For example, you might make one phone call to a friend or family member and then have that person call others.
Limit all visitors until at least the third day after surgery.
Bring comfortable clothes for you to sleep in during your hospital stay. There is little privacy.
Bring a water bottle for yourself.
For your child, bring button-front pajamas/shirts and loose-fitting clothing.
Bring lip balm for your child.
It is common for girls to menstruate during their hospital stay, so be sure to bring your own personal hygiene supplies.
Your child may have swelling of the face, arms, hands or other areas after surgery. This is common and will decrease within a day or two.
In the first few days after surgery, your child will receive a significant amount of medication to help him/her be comfortable. It is helpful to tell your child the date and time every time that he/she is awake.
Do not allow visitors to sit on or bump your child’s bed. Instruct visitors to be gentle when they touch.
Be prepared for your child to exhibit a wide range of emotions you may not be accustomed to seeing. This is very common after spinal fusion surgery.
Limit perfumes and colognes as your child may be sensitive to even familiar scents.
Bring several pillows for the car ride home.
It may be helpful to use a baby monitor to help your child communicate at home.