Common Parental Questions
Yes, modern anesthesia is very safe. Common side effects can include nausea, vomiting, sore throat, and mild confusion for a short time after anesthesia. Other complications are much rarer. Anesthesiologists are specially trained physicians who focus on caring for your child before, during, and after surgery.
Larger research studies (GAS and PANDA trials) have shown that a single, brief exposure to anesthesia has not been shown to cause long-term problems with learning or behavior. We use the lowest dose for the shortest time necessary. For more information visit the American Society of Anesthesiologists website.
This is very common! We have several ways to make the experience easier:
- Numbing Options: LMX cream (topical numbing) or J-tip — sprays numbing medicine through skin without a needle.
- Distraction & Comfort: Child Life specialists use toys, videos, breathing techniques, and tools like Buzzy to help block the “sting” sensation.
Most children under 10 go to sleep breathing anesthesia through a mask before an IV is placed.
- General Anesthesia: Your child will be fully asleep and unaware. This is the most common approach for children.
- Regional / Nerve Blocks: We numb the part of the body being operated on. Reduces pain and need for strong pain medicines afterward.
- Sedation: For shorter or less invasive procedures, lighter anesthesia helps your child stay calm and still.
An anesthesiologist will be at your child’s side the entire time — adjusting medicines and watching every detail.
Food or drink in the stomach increases the risk that contents could enter the lungs while your child is asleep. We follow strict NPO (“nothing by mouth”) guidelines to keep your child safe.
Your surgical team will give you specific instructions about when to stop eating and drinking. Please refer to the NPO Guidelines document provided by your facility for detailed timing.
Colds, coughs, fevers, or other illnesses can affect how safely your child’s airway and lungs respond to anesthesia. Please call if your child:
- Develops a fever over 100.4°F
- Has a cough, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- Tests positive for flu, RSV, or strep
- Seems unusually tired or unwell
Sometimes we can safely proceed with mild symptoms, but other times it’s best to delay until your child is fully recovered.
- Anesthesiologist: A doctor specializing in anesthesia, with your child from start to finish.
- CRNA: Works closely with the anesthesiologist to monitor and care for your child.
- Surgeon & Surgical Nurses: Perform and assist with the operation.
- Child Life Specialists & Pre-op Nurses: Help your child feel comfortable and prepared.
- PACU (Recovery) Nurses: Provide close monitoring as your child wakes up.
- Check-in: You’ll meet nurses and an anesthesiologist who will review medical history and answer questions.
- Preparation: Numbing cream or distraction techniques may be used. Child Life specialists help prepare your child.
- Anesthesia: Most children go to sleep breathing anesthesia through a mask before an IV is placed.
- Surgery: The anesthesiologist remains with your child throughout the procedure.
- Recovery: Your child goes to the recovery room (PACU), then you’ll reunite and either go home or to a hospital room.
Be honest yet simple. Explain that the “sleepy medicine” will help keep them safe and you’ll be there before and after. Use calm, positive words — say “small poke” instead of “needle” or “sleepy medicine” instead of “anesthesia”.
Helpful Resources: Simply Say It App by Phoenix Children’s Hospital · ASA Preparing Child for Surgery by American Society of Anesthesiologists.
What to Expect After Your Child’s Anesthesia
It is normal for children to experience some of the following after anesthesia:
- Sleepiness or fatigue: Your child may nap frequently.
- Nausea or vomiting: Usually improves within hours.
- Increased thirst or hunger: Start slowly with fluids.
- Fussiness or crying: Your child may seem confused or irritable.
- Sore throat: This can result from the breathing tube.
- Dizziness or unsteadiness: Balance may be temporarily affected.
First Few Hours:
- Keep your child calm and resting.
- Small sips of clear liquids (water, apple juice, popsicles).
- Advance to light, bland foods.
- Give pain meds as prescribed.
- Supervise closely, especially near stairs.
Rest of the Day:
- Encourage quiet activities (reading, coloring, movies).
- Avoid running or climbing.
- Avoid sports or rough play.
Next 1–2 Days:
- Most children return to normal.
- Follow surgeon’s instructions for return to school, sports, and physical activity.
Contact your doctor or seek emergency care if your child has any of the following:
- Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing
- Excessive bleeding from the surgical site
- Fever over 101.5°F (38.6°C)
- Persistent vomiting — unable to keep liquids down 4–6 hrs
- Severe pain not controlled with medication
- Extreme sleepiness or difficulty waking up
- Confusion or unusual behavior lasting several hours
If you are worried about your child at any point, call your doctor’s office. It is always better to ask than to worry.