Your operation: information for children

Are you coming to Royal Surrey for a children's hospital operation? You're one of our brave stars! Lots of children visit us every week for surgery, and our team is here to look after you, help you feel safe, and make your visit as easy as possible.

Watch our videos to find out what happens when you arrive at hospital. They'll help you feel prepared and confident about your surgery. There’s also some top tips at the bottom of the page.

Your parent or carer will be with you the whole time until you go to sleep for your operation. They’ll be waiting for you when you wake up too.

Top tips for your visit

  • Bring your favourite toy, blanket or comfort item.
  • Wear comfy clothes.
  • Ask any questions — our team loves to help.
  • Remember, your parent or carer will be with you until you’re asleep and will see you again as soon as you wake up.

Your planned operation with an astronaut mask

Video 1: Your operation with an astronaut mask

This video shows you what to expect if you are coming into hospital for an operation, so you don't feel worried. You’ll see:

  • Where you go when you first arrive.
  • The kind people who will look after you.
  • What the operating room looks like.
  • What happens as you go into the operating room.
  • How you use a special astronaut mask to help you safely fall asleep.
  • Waking up afterwards with your parent or carer nearby.

Your operation with an astronaut mask

Your planned operation with a cannula

Your operation with a cannula

This video will show you what to expect if you are coming to hospital for an operation, so you don't feel worried. You’ll see:

  • Where you will go when you arrive.
  • The kind people who will look after you.
  • What the operating room looks like.
  • What happens as you go into the operating room.
  • How the doctor helps you fall asleep for your operation using a cannula.
  • Waking up afterwards with your parent or carer nearby.

Your operation with a cannula

Your unplanned operation

Your unplanned operation

Sometimes, when you are not feeling well, you may need an operation. This video helps you understand what will happen, so you know what to expect and don’t feel worried. It shows you:

  • Where you will go before your operation.
  • The kind people who will look after you.
  • What the operating room looks like.
  • What happens when you go into the operating room.
  • How the doctor helps you go to sleep safely before your operation.
  • Waking up afterwards with your parent or carer nearby.

Your operation with a cannula – longer version (video)