A newly-developed checklist could now make it easier for local parents and carers across Sunraysia and the Mallee to track their child’s recovery after surgery.
The twenty-item questionnaire, developed as part of an international trial, considers not just pain and length of hospital stay, but also sleep, appetite, energy levels, mood and anxiety.
The findings of the trial which involved more than 1,100 children and families across Australia are being highlighted today on National Anaesthesia Day (Thursday, 16 October).
Australian trial leader, Associate Professor Paul Lee-Archer, says the checklist help fills an important gap for local parents and carers.
“Children aren’t just small adults,” Associate Professor Lee-Archer explains.
“They recover differently, and their needs after surgery can be complex. This checklist gives families and doctors a clear way to see how a child is really doing, beyond the hospital walls.”
Responses from children who were asked how they were feeling after their surgery included:
• “I had trouble sleeping.”
• “I did not feel like eating or drinking.”
• “I felt really worried.”
• “I was more easily upset.”
• “I had upsetting thoughts or feelings about being in hospital.”
Response scores ranged from 20 to 100, with higher scores showing better recovery.
