Anesthetic induction, the moment a patient falls asleep before surgery, is one of the most sensitive phases in pediatrics. According to a pediatric anesthetist collaborating on the project, «induction must be carried out in an atmosphere of calm and trust, as anxiety can turn this moment into a bad memory for the child and their parents».
Therefore, the team works beforehand to transform the experience into something more positive, framing the process as a small adventure for self-care, using adapted language and relying on the presence of parents to generate tranquility.
“"Children perceive their parents' emotional state. Inadequate messages or a tense farewell can increase their fear, so it is essential to convey security and use appropriate language."
From a surgical perspective, the head of the Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology team emphasizes that this measure responds to a care model focused on the pediatric patient, with the aim that the child experiences the day of surgery as calmly and pleasantly as possible. Parents are part of this care at all times, from prior preparation to accompaniment in the operating room.
The protocol is especially aimed at young children or those with higher levels of nervousness. Accompaniment is always assessed individually, prioritizing what is most appropriate for the child's well-being in each case. To ensure maximum safety in an environment like the operating room, the team has developed a pre-preparation system that includes detailed information for families.
Accompaniment is limited to the moment of anesthetic induction. After this moment, parents leave the operating room, and the procedure continues with the anesthetic and surgical team. Subsequently, when the child begins to regain consciousness, they are moved to the recovery area or their room, where they are reunited with their parents, reinforcing their sense of security.
