Our anaesthetists are very happy for parents to be with their child when they go off to sleep for their operation.
General anaesthesia is usually initiated via a mask. Anaesthetic gases are introduced slowly while distraction games are played. It usually takes about a minute to fall asleep.
While anaesthetised, a small intravenous needle (iv drip) is placed in your child’s arm to administer medicine and fluids. A tube is passed through your child’s nose and into their windpipe to facilitate breathing and provide unhindered access for surgery. This is removed before your child wakes up.
If your child has had previous anaesthesia and has a preference regarding the initiation of the anaesthetic, this will be accommodated.
