Because the health and safety of our patients, visitors and staff is a priority, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is:
When it comes to surgery, where you take your child or teen matters. Our surgery team performs more pediatric surgeries than any other children’s hospital in the country*—nearly 45,000 in 2019—from the most common outpatient procedures to the most complex operations requiring specialized, multidisciplinary care. As a result, we’ve earned Level 1 status from the American College of Surgeons for Children’s Surgery Verification—their highest designation. No other hospitals in Georgia have achieved this level. So, when your child needs surgery, you can take comfort knowing we met their highest distinction. We are setting the bar for children who need surgery in Georgia, and are highly experienced in caring for the surgical needs of children and teens, including:
Evidence has shown that children do better when their surgical team specializes in caring for kids. Our team, including pediatric surgeons, nurses and anesthesiologists, is specially trained and experienced in caring for children. Our pediatric surgeons and anesthesiologists are board certified and have received additional years of training in the specialty care of children. And, a pediatric anesthesiologist is guaranteed at Children’s.
Our hospital and surgical space is designed for children, from the colorful surroundings and pre-op playroom to the child-sized blood pressure cuffs and surgical equipment designed to meet each patient’s unique needs.
We know the importance of keeping families informed and at ease. Whatever your child’s condition and needs, you will have the information and resources you need to feel confident caring for him after he goes home.
*Children’s Hospital Association
Our team has specialized experience in all kinds surgery for children, and we work with other specialists across the Children’s system. Our pediatric surgical services include:
Children's Healthcare of Atlanta is committed to your child’s safety. We also want to help make sure your child does not undergo unnecessary testing. Our team has identified the procedures that require COVID-19 testing before surgery.
Your children's doctor will determine whether a pre-surgery COVID-19 test is needed. Testing may be required if your child is having:
If your child is asked to have pre-surgery COVID-19 testing
Most children do not need to come for a pre-anesthesia clinic visit. However, if your physician requests your child have an in-person, pre-anesthesia clinic visit, their COVID-19 screening will occur as part of the visit. If your child’s test is performed during their pre-anesthesia clinic visit, it is important to minimize your child’s risk of exposure to COVID-19 until the date of surgery. Keep your child at home and limit contact with other people as much as possible.
If your child isn’t required to come for a pre-anesthesia clinic visit, the COVID-19 screening test will occur on the day of surgery. Arrive at the time instructed to allow time for the test.
Studies show that children cope better with medical procedures when they are well prepared ahead of time. Parents are better able to help their children when they are better prepared as well.
Listen to your child, let him talk about his fears, and answer his questions honestly. Show that you are confident in his safety and the surgery’s success, and make sure he knows sickness and treatment are not punishments.
If you have any concerns, talk to us before the day of surgery and away from your child. In most cases, a nurse will call you a day or two before the surgery to give you instructions. You may be asked to call ahead for instructions the day before the surgery. A child life specialist will be available to help your child relax on the day of surgery. If possible, arrange in advance for care of your other children on the day of surgery, so you can focus on the child in our care.
To attend a pre-admission tour, contact:
Children's at Egleston: Ashley McClain, CCLS at 404-785-6325.
Children's at Scottish Rite: Sarah Rodgers, CCLS at 404-785-4286.
We have most of the things your child will need during his stay. Children’s provides diapers, hospital gowns and slipper socks. We have breast pumps for breastfeeding mothers, or you may bring your own. We also provide toys for your child’s age and video games.
Each of our private rooms includes a hide-a-bed sofa, bathroom, television and telephone, and each floor has a refrigerator, microwave and coffee maker. You can eat in our cafeteria or have meals delivered to your child’s room. Our locations also provide a business center, family library and chapel.
Make sure to bring:
Your child’s legal guardian must come to the hospital with your child, in order to sign papers allowing us to do the surgery.
Before walking out the door to go to the hospital, check to make sure you have:
Please add an extra 15 minutes to your commute for parking. And smile! Put your child at ease by showing your confidence, not your concerns.
Let us know right away if your child has had any signs of illness, such as fever, a cold, vomiting or diarrhea. Also let us know if he has been exposed to chickenpox, or if anyone in your household has been exposed to tuberculosis (TB). If you need to cancel, let us know as soon as possible so the surgery can be rescheduled.
When your child is scheduled for surgery, you need to fill out a pre-anesthesia history form with health questions about your child. You can fill out this form in advance at home and save time. Choose the link for the location where your child is having surgery:
2620 Satellite Blvd.
Duluth, GA 30096-1204
