Modern paediatric day case anaesthesia: a review

Summary The economic and psychological benefits of reducing the in‐patient hospital stay are obvious advantages of day case surgery for children. Careful selection, pre‐operative assessment and preparation of children and their parents for day case surgery are vitally important for success. Staffing levels, equipment and facilities must be clearly defined and costed. The implications for waiting lists and the alternative use of in‐patient beds must be taken into account. New anaesthetic, analgesic and monitoring techniques have made intraoperative care for a wide range of paediatric surgical procedures safe and straightforward. Recovery is rapid, uncomplicated and comfortable for the majority of children. Post‐operative care is simple, allowing early mobilization, oral intake and return home. Follow‐up care at home is important and assists audit of the day surgery service. In certain cases, in‐patient admission may be required and facilities for this should be immediately available.