Anaesthesia common questions

• either with a mask releasing the anaesthetic gas on their face, or
• with an injection
• anaesthetists have techniques to make the process less scary for children.

• if the anaesthetist agrees, one parent or carer may be allowed into the anaesthetic room to stay until your child falls asleep
• a Hospital Volunteer is available to take you to and from the operating theatre
• it can be unsettling to watch if you have not seen it before 
• the anaesthetist will discuss the best approach with you 

• preparing your child for a general anaesthetic (GA) can minimise stress and anxiety
• how you prepare your child will depend on their age and behaviour 
• children react and cope differently and some may be more nervous and scared than others
• the care team and Child Life Therapists are trained to help you through the Hospital experience. 

Child Life Therapy provide a Monday to Friday service to patients having  general anaesthetic

Child Life Therapy can be contacted prior to surgery to answer questions, help plan your child’s admission or assist with surgery preparation. 

You can access this service by speaking to nursing staff or contacting the Child Life Therapy office.