Preparing for your child's anaesthetic.

How can I prepare my child for anaesthetic?

 

Tell your child what is to happen. Above all, tell the truth. Remember that open and truthful discussion is the key to successful preparation of your child for surgery and anaesthesia.

The length of preparation depends on a child’s age. Children under four years require a few hours’ preparation. Those aged four to six need a day or two, while children over six may require several days to a week. Consider using books, videos, and activities such as play-acting to help with preparation.

 

How can I prepare myself for my child's anaesthetic?

 

Your child will sense your anxiety, so if you and your partner have any questions or concerns please contact me.

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What happens if my child is unwell before his operation?

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Take your child to your family doctor and follow the advice and instructions that you have been given. If your child is sick one week before the operation, please contact me and I will let you know what needs to be done. In most cases, the operation will proceed with no issues but in some circumstances, it will be safer to postpone the operation until your child is well. This decision will be made in conjunction with your surgeon.

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Why does my child need to fast?

 

The reason for fasting is that when anaesthetised, the stomach stops working and the cough and other protective reflexes stop working. If there is food or fluid in the stomach it can passively run back into the mouth and go down into the lungs.​

In general, no milk, food, lollies or chewing gum for at least 6 hours before the start of surgery.

Clear liquids (water or clear apple juice) are allowed up to 3 hour before the start of an elective list.

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Can I come into the theatre with my child?

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One of the parents will be allowed to accompany the child until he/she is asleep. It is common for parents to get nervous when their child is anaesthetised. If you are very nervous or upset it is best not to come into the anaesthetic room. It is natural to get a little teary. I will always take good care of your child.

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What to expect when I am in theatre with my child?

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The staff will try to provide a non-threatening environment for your child to come into. But unfortunately, sometimes being away from his/her normal environment can be too overwhelming.

Children from 6 months to 4 years are the most vulnerable because the child's separation anxiety is at it's maximum. Children are becoming old enough to remember, especially negative experiences, but not old enough to understand the need for surgery and hospitalization. 

School age children are usually less upset about separation and more concerned about the surgical procedure. Sometimes they prefer not to be accompanied by their parents.

 

What will I see when my child goes off to sleep?

 

In most cases, a "drip" or needle is NOT required at the start of the operation. One will be placed in his/her hand when your child is anaesthetised. A clear mask is placed over his/her face with an anaesthetic agent passing thru it. It usually takes 1-2 mins for your child to drift off to sleep.

It is sometimes necessary to briefly hold children firmly to ensure safe and rapid onset of anaesthesia. 

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What to expect when I go into recovery to see my child after surgery?

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The nurses in the recovery area are specially trained to look after your child. When they think that it is safe for you to come in, you can be by your child's side. Do not worry if you have to wait longer that you expected, every child is different and will take different length of time to wake up.

Children especially toddlers can wake up distressed and disorientated. This is a combination of the anaesthetic medication, unfamiliar environment and sometime discomfort. The recovery nurse and myself will assist in these situations. Normally, this disorientated phase will last about 30-45 minutes.

When your child is safe, he/she will be transferred to the ward or day surgery area.