PATIENT INFORMATION
My child is having anaesthesia - what should I prepare?
Information to bring
- An accurate medication list, including inhalers and supplements
- Allergy information
- Details of previous anaesthetics and any problems
- Recent illnesses and any specialist reports
- The vaccination record, if requested
What to tell the anaesthesiologist
- Prematurity or problems around birth
- Heart or lung disease, including asthma
- Snoring or sleep apnoea
- Developmental conditions, autism or sensory needs
- Loose teeth
- Recent wheeze, cough, cold or a recent respiratory infection
- Any family history of problems with anaesthesia
- Recent vaccinations
Fasting
Follow the child’s fasting instructions carefully. Children should not be fasted longer than necessary, but paediatric fasting protocols vary and the hospital’s instructions should take priority. See the Fasting for children page.
Preparing your child
- Explain what will happen in simple, honest, age-appropriate words. Avoid promising that nothing will hurt.
- Bring a favourite toy, blanket or comfort item.
- Ask whether a parent can stay while your child goes to sleep. Policies vary between hospitals.
- If your child is very anxious or has particular needs, tell the team in advance so they can plan.
After the anaesthetic
Children can be sleepy, upset or confused for a short time after waking. Ask the team what to expect, when your child can eat and drink, and what pain relief to use at home.
If your child becomes unwell before surgery
Contact the hospital rather than deciding at home whether the procedure should go ahead.