Version July 2025
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What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of your child after getting medical care for a health problem.
What is general anesthesia? —
This is medicine given before and during surgery (or another procedure). It makes your child unconscious so they can't feel, see, or hear anything during surgery. Some of the medicines are given through a thin tube that goes into a vein, called an "IV." Others are gases your child breathes in. Some children get a breathing tube to help them breathe while unconscious.
When the surgery is finished, your child might be moved to a "post-anesthesia care unit," or "PACU," to recover from general anesthesia. A team of doctors and nurses will watch your child and check for any problems. They will help decide when it is safe for your child to go home.
How do I care for my child at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for your child. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also do the following:
●Give your child all their medicines as instructed – The doctor might prescribe medicines for pain or medicines to help with nausea from the anesthesia. The staff will tell you when and how to give them.
●Your child might have a sore throat for a short time if they had a breathing tube. They can try sucking on ice chips or ice pops.
●Take extra care when your child moves around – They have a higher chance of falling for a short time after general anesthesia. Help them move slowly. and encourage them to be careful when getting up. If possible, be nearby when they walk or move around in case they feel dizzy. Have them wear flat shoes or socks with non-slip soles.
●Offer your child food when they are hungry – If your child has nausea, it might help to start with clear liquids. If they have a sore throat, it might help to start with foods that are easy to swallow, like soup, pudding, toast, or eggs. They can eat other types of foods when they feel ready.
●The doctor will talk with you about when it is safe for your child to do activities like driving or riding a bicycle or skateboard.
What follow-up care does my child need? —
Your doctor or nurse will tell you if you need to make a follow-up appointment. If so, make sure you know when and where to go.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if your child:
●Has trouble breathing
●Continues to vomit, or cannot keep down any fluids
●Has any symptoms that worry you
Patient education: Anesthesia in children (The Basics)
Patient education: Sedation for procedures in children (The Basics)
Patient education: Monitored anesthesia care (The Basics)
Patient education: Nerve blocks (The Basics)
Patient education: Managing pain after surgery (The Basics)
Patient education: Questions to ask if you are having surgery or a procedure (The Basics)
