Preparing questions in advance can help parents to have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their child’s condition. Parents may wish to ask their doctor the following questions related to the Blalock-Taussig procedure:

1. What type of heart defect does my child have that makes this procedure necessary?
   
   
2. How will the procedure correct the problem?
   
   
3. Is my child a good candidate for this type of procedure?
   
   
4. Are there any alternative treatments available to my child?
   
   
5. Will someone who has experience with this specific procedure perform the operation?
   
   
6. What are the risks associated with this procedure?
   
   
7. How soon does the surgery need to be performed?
   
   
8. What will happen if my child does not have this procedure?
   
   
9. Are there any necessary preparations prior to the surgery?
   
   
10. What is the period of recovery for my child?
    
    
11. What are my child’s restrictions following the procedure?
    
    
12. What types of surgeries are necessary to permanently correct the defect?
    
    
13. How much time will this procedure give my child before further surgery is necessary?
    
    
14. Will my child need to take any medications after the surgery and for how long?