Anaesthesia
Children's Anaesthesia
At the Royal United Hospital (RUH) Bath, we provide anaesthesia for over 2,000 children and young people each year, ranging in age from around 2 months to 18 years. Our aim is to ensure that every child and family feels informed, supported and cared for throughout their hospital visit.
Children are not small adults, and their anaesthetic care requires specialist knowledge, skills and experience. We have a dedicated group of consultant paediatric anaesthetists, working closely with surgeons, nurses and theatre staff who regularly care for children.
Before your child's operation
Before surgery, you and your child will receive information to help you prepare for the day. This may include:
- A digital pre-operative assessment
- Age-appropriate written information
- Guidance on eating and drinking before surgery
We understand that coming to hospital can be worrying for both children and parents or carers. Our teams take time to explain what will happen and to answer any questions you may have.
On the day of surgery
On the day of the operation:
- Your child will be cared for by staff experienced in working with children
- Anaesthetic techniques are chosen to be as gentle and safe as possible
- Parents or carers are supported throughout the process, including at induction and in recovery where appropriate
After surgery
After the operation, your child will be cared for in recovery by staff experienced in paediatric care. Pain relief and comfort are carefully managed, and you will be given advice about recovery at home before discharge.
If you have concerns after going home, you will be given clear instructions on who to contact.
What procedures do we cover?
We provide anaesthesia for a wide range of surgical and diagnostic procedures, including:
- ENT surgery (such as tonsillectomy)
- Dental and maxillofacial surgery
- General surgery
- Orthopaedics
- Ophthalmology
- Urology
- Diagnostic procedures such as MRI scans
Children requiring more complex care are carefully assessed and managed, and the department regularly supports the initial stabilisation and transfer of seriously unwell children to specialist Paediatric Intensive Care Units when needed.
Helpful Resources
You may find the following resources useful:
Short films explaining the anaesthetic process:
Royal College of Anaesethtists:
Information for children, parents and carers including age related information
Common events and risks for children and young people.
There is also an Infographic available.
Further information