Nephrectomy: Caring for your child at home

A doctor or surgeon has performed an operation called a nephrectomy (say: nef-FREK-tomy) to remove one of your child's kidneys. Learn how to take care of your child at home after the procedure.

Before leaving the hospital

Before leaving the hospital, your child's nurse will explain to you the medications your child will take home. It is important that your child takes the medicine as prescribed until the doctor says it is all right to stop.

Eating and drinking as usual

While at home, encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids. There are no restrictions on what your child can eat.

Changing your child's bandage

Change your child's bandage every day for two to three days, then you may leave it off unless otherwise instructed.

Bathing

Your child should be able to bathe normally when you go home. Check with your nurse about this before you leave.

Going back to regular activities

Make sure your child avoids rough play or contact sports until your follow-up appointment.

Your child may go back to school one week after coming home from hospital. Your child should be excused from gym class until after the follow-up appointment. It is normal for your child to need extra rest during the first few days at home.

Who to call if you have any concerns

If you have questions about your child's care while you are at home, call the Urology Clinic at the hospital where you child had the surgery.

Write down the phone number of your child's Urology Clinic here:

At SickKids

If you have questions about your child's care while you are at home, telephone the Urology Clinic 416-813-6661 and ask to speak with a nurse.

If you have concerns at night or on the weekend, you can visit your local Emergency Room or the Hospital for Sick Children Emergency Department. If you have any questions, you may also contact your family physician or paediatrician.