Discharge Instructions For Parents of Children with Appendicitis

1. Follow-up with Pediatric Surgeon in 1 to 2 weeks. Call (602) 254-5561 to schedule an appointment.
2. Your child may shower 48 hours (2 days) after surgery.
3. Your child may bathe or swim 4 days after surgery.
4. Within the first 14 days after surgery, call your surgeon for Temperature greater than 101oF, inability to eat, vomiting, severe diarrhea, or any problems with breathing.
5. Medications for pain: Tylenol with codeine as needed. You may use Motrin or regular Tylenol if the pain is mild.
6. If one of the incisions starts to drain pus, put your child in a warm bath with mild soap and let the pus drain. After the bath, dry the area off and cover the wound with a dry gauze or large bandaid. Call the office for an appointment within the next day or so.
7. Watch for constipation and stay well hydrated. You may give your child prune juice if needed for constipation.
8. Your child may return to school when he or she is off of prescription pain medicine.