What to Expect
In this section, find information on what to expect before, during and after a clinic visit or orthopedic surgery and get the answers to some common questions.
Clinic Visit
You may have questions about Seattle Children’s and how to prepare your child for a visit to the Orthopedics Clinic. Get more information about your child’s clinic visit, including:
- Important things to do before the appointment
- Tips on preparing your child for the upcoming visit
- Paperwork and other things to remember the day of the appointment
- Suggested questions to ask your child’s doctor
- How to prepare for care at home
What happens during a clinic visit?
After check-in, a medical assistant will take you and your child to an exam room. Next, different members of the orthopedics team may see your child. Who you will see will vary based on the reason for your child’s visit.
Your child’s doctor may order some tests, such as an , , or .
Sometimes, we have children go to the lab to give a blood sample or to the cast room to put on or remove a cast or splint. Your child may need follow-up clinic visits or more testing.
Directions, parking and entering
- Find your location in our map and directions section.
- Arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to allow time for registration.
Preparing for Surgery
Preparing your child and your family for surgery may help reduce your stress.
Our team is committed to helping children who need surgery and their families know what to expect each step of the way.
Learn more about what to expect if your child is having surgery, including:
- Things to do once surgery is scheduled
- Tips on preparing your child for the surgery
- What to bring and what to expect the day of surgery
- Helpful questions to ask your child’s doctor
- How to prepare for care at home
Preparing for a Hospital Stay
Find out what you need to know about your child’s hospital stay at Seattle Children’s, including:
- Things to do before your child gets to the hospital
- Tips on preparing your child for a hospital stay
- What to expect during your child’s stay
- Helpful questions to ask your child’s doctor
- Information to help you after your child leaves the hospital
Learn about main campus amenities.
Contact Us
Contact Orthopedics and Sports Medicine at 206-987-2109 for an appointment, a second opinion or more information.
Providers, see how to refer a patient.
Telemedicine at Seattle Children’s
You may be offered a telehealth (virtual) appointment. Learn more.
Paying for Care
Learn about paying for care at Seattle Children’s, including insurance coverage, billing and financial assistance.