What should I, as a parent, know before my child receives anesthesia?

Understanding the anesthesia process can help ease your worries about your child’s upcoming procedure. Pediatric anesthesiologists are specially trained to administer anesthesia to children and are experts in ensuring their safety and comfort. They use carefully tailored doses and monitoring techniques specifically designed for young patients.

It’s important to know that children respond differently to anesthesia than adults. They often wake up more quickly and may experience unique side effects, such as a brief period of confusion or irritability. Rest assured, you and the anesthesiologist will be with your child throughout recovery. The anesthesiologist will closely monitor their vital signs and adjust the anesthesia as needed to keep them safe and comfortable.

What are some special considerations and preparations for my child?

1. Preoperative instructions: Your child’s healthcare team will provide specific instructions regarding eating and drinking before anesthesia. Generally, your child should not eat or drink anything for a certain period before the procedure to reduce the risk of aspiration (breathing in stomach contents). While you may want your child to go into surgery well-fed, these guidelines are crucial for their safety.
2. Medical history and medications: Be sure to inform the anesthesiologist about your child’s complete medical history, including any allergies, chronic conditions, or previous reactions to anesthesia. Also, disclose any medications your child is currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs or vitamins (including gummy vitamins). This information helps the anesthesiologist plan the safest and most effective anesthesia strategy for your child.
3. Comforting your child: Talk to your child about the procedure calmly and reassuringly. Use simple, age-appropriate language to explain that they’ll be given medicine to help them sleep during the procedure and that you’ll be there when they wake up. Bringing comfort items or toys to the hospital can help reduce anxiety and make your child feel more secure.
4. Sedation before anesthesia: In some cases, the anesthesiologist may administer a mild sedative before the procedure to help your child relax. This can make the experience less stressful and easier for them to handle. The sedative may be given as a liquid or through an IV, depending on your child’s age and the procedure.
5. After the procedure: Once the procedure is complete, your child will be moved to a recovery area where the anesthesia will begin to wear off. Children often wake up more quickly from anesthesia than adults but may feel groggy, confused, or even a bit cranky as they come around. Your presence will be comforting for them, so you’ll be brought in as soon as they start to wake up.
6. Postoperative care: After returning home, your child may need some time to fully recover from the effects of anesthesia. They might be sleepy, nauseous, or experience a sore throat if a breathing tube was used. Encourage them to rest and offer light, easy-to-digest foods as they regain their appetite. The healthcare team will provide specific instructions on what to expect and when to call the doctor if you have any concerns.

Don’t hesitate to ask questions or express any concerns before the procedure. The more informed you are, the better you’ll be able to support your child through this experience.