When are surgical care innovations not surgical?

Integrating pediatric psychologists into surgical care trajectories can reduce preoperative anxiety and improve postoperative outcomes. Pediatric psychologists can provide personalized approaches to how children and caregivers are informed about and prepared for what they will experience throughout the perioperative course, as well as teach cognitive and behavioral coping skills. These interventions can contribute to improved emotional, behavioral, and surgical outcomes, resulting in a more positive experience for children and their caregivers.