Discharge Instructions For Parents of Children after Hernia, Groin or Inguinal Surgery

1. Follow-up with Pediatric Surgeon in 1 to 2 weeks. Call (602) 254-5561 to schedule an appointment.
2. If your child is out of diapers, keep the incision dry for 48 hours (2 days) after surgery. For children in diapers, you may gently clean the incision site with soap and water as necessary.
3. Your child may bathe or swim 4 days after surgery.
4. Within the first 2 days after surgery, call your surgeon for redness of the incision, excessive scrotal swelling, temperature greater than 101°F, inability to eat, repeated 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 Band-Aid. Call the office for an appointment for the next day.
7. Watch for constipation and stay well hydrated. You may give your child prune juice if needed for constipation.
8. You do not have to restrict your child’s activity because of the surgery. They may play and participate in sports when they feel well enough and are no longer hurting from the surgery.
9. Your child may return to school when he or she is off of prescription pain medicine.