If you have food in your stomach while you are anaesthetised, there is a risk that the food could be inhaled. Fasting usually means no solids or milk for six hours before surgery. Your child may drink clear fluids such as cordial, lemonade or apple juice up to three hours before surgery. Small babies and breast-fed babies may not need to fast as long. The day surgery staff will advise you of the appropriate fasting time.
Most children recover from anaesthesia quickly and without problems.
Nausea and vomiting are relatively common and may be caused by the anaesthesia or the surgery or both. The vomiting is rarely severe or persistent. Let your child eat and drink when they feel like it - do not force them to eat or drink. If they continue to vomit for more than 12 hours after the operation, contact the hospital for advice. If your child is in pain after the operation, a simple pain reliever like paracetamol may help control the discomfort.