Anaesthesia for day-care surgery: a symposium (IV). Anaesthesia for paediatric out-patients.

Out-patient surgery for infants and children offers the advantages of minimal emotional upset, less risk of infection, and fiscal economy. Many different operations can be done in the out-patient department and most children can be accepted for general anaesthesia for these operations. Preparation of the child is similar to that required for in-patient surgery. Premedication is unnecessary and contraindicated. A variety of techniques may be selected for induction of anaesthesia without unduly prolonging recovery. General inhalation anaesthesia with halothane is preferred for maintenance. Careful tracheal intubation should be utilized whenever indicated. Regional analgesia has many advantages over narcotic analgesics in the treatment of post-operative pain. A follow-up service should be provided.