Understanding anaesthesia

A general anaesthetic makes a person unconscious for a procedure. An anaesthetist is a doctor who looks after children during an anaesthetic. They choose the medicines and checks to suit your child’s heart, general health and procedure. Some tests use sedation instead. This is medicine that helps a child relax or become sleepy.

Ask which is planned rather than assuming that every scan or catheter procedure involves the same approach.

Tell the team about medicines, allergies, recent illness, previous anaesthetic difficulties and loose teeth or dental work. Follow the hospital’s exact instructions about eating, drinking and medicines. If instructions are unclear or have not been followed, tell staff; do not hide it or try to work out a replacement schedule yourself.

The anaesthetic may start through a cannula, a small tube in a vein, or through a mask. The team chooses what is suitable for your child.

Ask what choices your child can make and what is fixed for medical reasons. Play specialists use play to help children understand hospital care. They can explain unfamiliar equipment and help your child practise parts of the visit. Tell the team if masks, needles or separation are particularly difficult.

Ask whether you can be present as your child falls asleep, where you will wait and how you will be updated. The team should explain the important risks for your child and the recovery plan. It is fine to return to a question that you did not take in during the first conversation.