Pediatric outpatient anesthesia.

Successful anesthetic management of children undergoing outpatient surgery requires that the surgeon and anesthesiologist be actively involved in all aspects of management. Guidelines should be established in consultation with the surgeons, nurses, and administrators to ensure proper selection and preoperative preparation of patients. The psychological evaluation and preparation of children, and the use of pharmacologic premedication when indicated, will ensure a pleasant experience for all involved. The anesthesiologist should choose a specific anesthetic agent and a technique that are appropriate for each individual child. Use of "routine" induction techniques is rarely, if ever, appropriate. Early ambulation and discharge are very desirable in outpatients. Long-acting drugs and techniques that are associated with excessive drowsiness or nausea and vomiting should not be utilized. Special attention must be paid to the analgesic requirements of the child. Regional blocks should be used whenever possible to supplement "light" general anesthesia and to limit the need for narcotics during recovery. Specific criteria for discharge ensure the safety and protection of the child and staff.