Making Your Visit the Best it Can Be

A visit to the doctor can make some kids uneasy. Here are a few tips to make your visit easier for your child, and you.

• Kids often fear the unknown. Talk through what to expect. With younger children, read a book about visiting the doctor. Role-play a clinic visit, using a stuffed animal or doll to demonstrate an exam.
• Some kids fear separation. Reassure your child that you’ll be with them the entire time.
• Discuss something fun you’ll do after your visit.
• Build in extra travel time so that you’re not rushed. Our waiting rooms are designed to keep kids occupied and happy.
• Allow your child to wear their favorite outfit, superhero costume or tiara.
• Bring along a favorite toy.

A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

When you arrive at one of our admitting or clinic check-in areas, you’ll be greeted by a Stanford Children’s Health staff member. Please bring the following:

• Valid photo identification
• Insurance information and a photocopy of your/your child’s insurance card(s)
• Names, addresses and phone numbers of the doctor(s) who referred you to Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford and/or provides care for you or your child
• List of your child’s medications
• Any orders or paperwork you may have received from a health care provider
• If you would like to authorize a family member or friend to bring your child to their appointment, please complete this third party authorization consent form in English or the third party authorization consent form in Spanish and have it available at the appointment

Nurturing Care, Before and After Surgery

We perform most surgeries in the state-of-the-art Ford Family Surgery Center, a dedicated space designed specifically for children. Our top doctors and exceptional nurses and staff will include you as an important part of your child’s care team, and be there to support you throughout your child’s stay and recovery.

Resources to Help You Prepare for Surgery Day

Knowing what to expect and arriving prepared help make things go smoothly for you and your child on the day of your surgery or procedure.

Preparing for Your Child's Procedure
Important Safety Instructions to Follow
Planning for Your Child’s Comfort
What to Bring to the Hospital

Ready for Your Procedure or Surgery

We know that on the day of the procedure or surgery, your child may be hungry or anxious, and you might be too. We want your child’s hospital experience to be as smooth and comfortable as possible, so please share your concerns and needs with us.

What to Bring to the Hospital
Arriving at the Hospital
Changes, Delays or Cancellation of Procedures or Surgeries
Your Child’s Comfort On Surgery Day
Meet Your Care Team

Recovering at the Hospital and at Home

Immediately after the procedure or surgery, your child will receive care in the post anesthetic care unit (PACU) or in one of our intensive care units (ICUs). Some children will go home after recovering in the PACU, while others will be admitted to an acute care unit in the hospital to continue recovering.

Whether you’re here for a few days or several months, we have many resources available for you and your child to help you feel comfortable during your stay.

After Your Procedure or Surgery
Your Child's Comfort During Recovery
Going Home

24-Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week

We’re here for you in an emergency. Our pediatric emergency department team is made up of world-class Stanford Medicine doctors and outstanding 100-percent registered nurses. We know kids, and have designed our emergency department with them in mind—including our waiting room stocked with toys and games, and TVs and iPads in every room. Patient rooms are equipped with monitors linked to our central nursing station, which allows for constant eyes and ears on your child.