Same-Day Procedures
Nationwide Children's Hospital provides same-day procedures at our Main Campus and Westerville Surgery Center.
We want to make sure that you and your child understand what is going to happen. We make it a priority to provide the highest quality clinical services and safety, while addressing the unique emotional needs of your child.
You and your child may have many questions before the procedure. You should feel free to talk with your child's doctor about any questions you have about the procedure. Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions.Going to the hospital or an outpatient center can be stressful for children and parents. It is important to talk with your child so that he or she knows what to expect on the day of his or her procedure and feels comfortable about what will take place.
Here are some tips on how to talk about what's going to happen:
- Start the conversation just a day or two before the visit for children under age 5.
- Older children need more time to prepare. Start talking with your child one to two weeks before the appointment.
- Explain the problem and how the procedure will fix it.
- Use simple words that your child will understand.
- Be honest with your child about what to expect. If something may hurt, say so. This will help your child trust you and the doctors and nurses.
- If you do not know the answer to your child's question, tell your child that you don't know, but that you will find out.
- Encourage your child to share his or her feelings and to ask you questions. You may realize that your child is worrying about something that will not happen.
- Talk with your child about any fears they share.
- Do not force a discussion if your child does not seem ready.
If your child is scheduled for an outpatient surgery, you can learn more about surgery at Nationwide Children's Hospital in our Surgery Guide.
You can also schedule a personal tour for you and your family. This is a good way to let your child get comfortable about the procedure and to ask questions.
Outpatient surgery tours:
- Are available for our Main Campus Surgery Center, Main Operating Room and Westerville Surgery Center
- Include spending time in the procedure rooms
- Include time to explore medical equipment
- Include a question and answer session
To request a tour of the Main Campus Surgery Center or the Westerville Surgery Center, call (614) 722-2929.
To request a tour of the Main Operating Room, call (614) 722-3642.
When you come to the hospital or outpatient surgery center, you will need to bring specific information to help us provide the best care for your child. You may also bring other items for comfort and convenience.
It may be helpful to gather needed information and pack a bag the night before. Be sure to include:
- Your child's current immunization record
- Your child's medication bottles
- A list of all medications, vitamins and herbal supplements your child is currently taking
- Appointment information, such as the name of the doctor performing your procedure
- The name and telephone number of your referring physician
- Your insurance card
- Social security numbers for the patient and parents (for insurance purposes)
- Insurance authorizations (please call your insurance company before your appointment if you're unsure of exactly what you’ll need)
- Your child's medical records (including X-rays and lab tests, if requested by your doctor)
- A list of questions for the physician, from you and your child if old enough
- If you need to bring other children with you, ask another adult to come along to help you
- Books, games, snacks, formula, diapers, change of baby clothes or other necessities
General Information
- Children's Outpatient Surgery (614) 722-5200
- Children's Surgery Center (614) 722-2920
Billing Information
- Children's Outpatient Surgery (614) 722-2055
- Children's Surgery Center (614) 722-2055
Other Information
- Pre-Admission Testing (614) 722-3850
- Welcome Walk Appointments (614) 722-2929