Anaesthesia is usually started in a special room next to the operating theatre. It is usually possible to go with your child into this room. However, there are some situations where this may not be appropriate, for example with babies less than six months old, and the anaesthetist will explain this to you. If you do not wish to be present, please be assured that it is not necessary for you to be with your child at this time. Apart from becoming drowsy, you may notice other changes in your child at the start of anaesthesia.
Children commonly go through a brief period of restlessness before becoming very floppy.
It is also common for your child s eyes to roll back. Is is also common for your child to have noisy breathing at this time. Once asleep, your child will be taken into the operating theatre and prepared for surgery, whilst you will be escorted out of the theatre suite. During the operation, the anaesthetist will continually watch over your child, particularly their breathing and circulation, supporting and controlling them as necessary. Anaesthetic gases are usually breathed to maintain anaesthesia and are adjusted to ensure your child is safely asleep throughout the operation.