Anaesthesia for kids

You will receive an introduction to your child’s anaesthetist via text or email before the procedure. This will include important information and a link to complete a short health survey.

On the day of surgery, your anaesthetist will usually meet you and your child after admission. This may happen in the anaesthetic room just before the procedure begins.

For younger children, anaesthetic is usually given via a mask, which they breathe through to help them “fall asleep.” A parent is encouraged to stay until your child is asleep for comfort and reassurance. If needed, you may be asked to hold or cuddle your child during this stage. After they are asleep, a drip (IV) is inserted to give further medications and fluids.

For older children, numbing cream will be applied to the back of the hand. Instead of using a mask, a drip is placed into the numbed area and anaesthetic medication is given through it. This is very comfortable for the child and well tolerated. This method is more pleasant for older children, as it takes significantly longer for a child to fall asleep using a mask and the smell of the anaesthetic gas can be unpleasant.

Regardless of the method, your child will be asleep within about one minute. Once they are asleep, a staff member will accompany you out of the anaesthetic room so we can focus on the care of your child.

Your child will be taken to the recovery room where a nurse will monitor them closely and ensure they are comfortable. You’ll be able to see your child once they begin to wake up.

Some children may wake quickly, while others take more time. It’s normal for younger children to be unsettled or tearful as they wake, even if they are not in pain—this usually passes quickly with some comfort and cuddles.

The drip is often removed in recovery if it’s no longer needed. If your child is staying in hospital or requires further fluids or medications, the drip will remain in place. Removing the drip is very comfortable.

Anaesthesia for children in Australia is extremely safe due to modern equipment, medications, and highly specialised training.

Common, minor side effects may include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Sore throat or hoarse voice
• Brief agitation or confusion on waking (especially in children aged 2–6)
• Dental irritation or injury (uncommon)

Serious complications, such as those that could cause permanent harm, are extremely rare. If your child has increased anaesthetic risk, your anaesthetist will explain this to you after reviewing your child.

Pain management is tailored for your child. Medications are given while they are asleep, and further doses are provided in recovery if needed. If you’re going home the same day, your anaesthetist will guide you on the best medications to use at home. More often than not, simple pain medications such as paracetamol and ibuprofen are sufficient to keep your child comfortable, so make sure you have stocked up prior to your child’s procedure.

Fasting is essential to keep your child safe during anaesthesia. Please follow the guidelines below carefully:

Children over 6 months of age

• Morning surgery: No food after 1:00 am. Clear fluids (water or clear apple juice) are allowed until arrival at hospital.
• Afternoon surgery: Light breakfast before 7:00 am. Clear fluids allowed until arrival at hospital.

Children under 6 months of age

• Formula: No formula in the 3 hours before hospital arrival
• Breast milk: No breast milk in the 2 hours before hospital arrival
• Clear fluids: Allowed until arrival at hospital

Bring anything that will help your child feel safe and comforted:

• A favourite toy, dummy, blanket, or soft toy
• A change of clothes (for younger children)
• Snacks or a bottle for after the procedure (keep these out of sight beforehand)
• An iPad, book or other entertainment for longer wait times

Please remember, your child must not eat before surgery—even small snacks or sips of milk—so keep all food hidden until after the procedure.

It’s helpful to use simple, positive, and age-appropriate language. Here are some examples:

• “The doctor will help you go to sleep so they can fix what needs fixing.”
• “You’ll go on a special adventure, and I’ll be there with you until you fall asleep.”

You can also prepare them using children’s books or a short video about hospital visits.

Children often get sick, and in many cases, it’s still safe to proceed.

• If your child has a mild cold (runny nose, occasional cough, no fever, and generally well): Please come to hospital as planned. Your anaesthetist will assess your child and decide whether it’s safe to proceed.
• If your child has vomiting or diarrhoea(gastro symptoms): Please contact your surgeon’s rooms to reschedule the procedure. It is not safe to proceed.

Generally speaking, if your child is well enough for school, then they can proceed with their anaesthetic.

If you’re unsure, attend as planned and your anaesthetist will review your child.

Children are incredibly perceptive and often mirror their parents’ emotional state. If you are calm and positive, your child is more likely to feel safe and reassured. Conversely, visible anxiety can heighten your child’s distress.

Tips to support your child:

• Stay calm and reassuring – A steady presence helps them feel safe.
• Use positive language – Avoid phrases like “It won’t hurt” or “Be brave.” Try, “The doctors are here to help you.”
• Be honest but simple– Don’t overload them with detail if they’re not asking.
• Let them bring a comfort item– Their favourite toy, PJs or costume can ease nerves.
• Prepare together– Watch a short video or read a picture book about going to hospital.
• Care for yourself– Take a deep breath. Paediatric anaesthesia is incredibly safe, and your child will be in expert hands.

Each anaesthetist has their own way of helping make the experience a comfortable one. Follow their cues and play along!