Preparation for your child
The most important feature of preparing your child for anaesthesia and surgery is honesty. Even young children respond well to information about anaesthesia. Give your child a simple explanation of the procedure, preferably at least several days ahead. Unnecessary distress is caused when the child is not informed until arrival at the hospital. Encourage your child to ask questions. It is important that no one lies to the child about the procedure.Â
Fasting for your child
It is crucial for your safety you follow these instructions. If your operation is in the morning you must not have anything to eat after 12 midnight. You may drink water up to 2 hours prior to the time you have been asked to attend the hospital. If your operation is in the afternoon please have a light breakfast prior to 7.30 am. Do not eat or drink anything after this time except for water which you may continue to drink up to 2 hours prior to the time you have been asked to attend the hospital.
Anaesthesia for your child
You will be able to enter the theatre to be with your child whilst anaesthesia is induced. This is usually done by a mask and anaesthetic gas. Once your child is unconscious you will be guided out of the theatre. I will then place an intravenous cannula (and fluids if necessary.)
Throughout the procedure I will constantly monitor and titrate the anaesthesia.
Once the procedure is finished I will stay with your child in recovery until it is safe for you to be with them. It is not unusual for them to be a little restless and unsettled as the disorientation of the anaesthetic wears off. (Not from pain as pain relief has been administered with the anaesthetic)