Anxiety during inhalation induction in paediatrics: Sitting versus supine position, a randomised trial

We evaluated if the sitting or supine positions affect anxiety levels induced by the application of a facemask in children.

Prospective, randomised study.

Paediatric hospital, operating room.

Two to twelve years old children, 1-3 ASA status, undergoing inhalation anaesthesia for elective surgery.

Children were randomly assigned to a sitting or supine position. After monitoring equipment was established, inhalation was inducted by the application of the mask.

Child anxiety was then assessed with the modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale (mYPAS) before the application of the facemask and following mask application.

Overall, 99 children in the sitting group and 103 in the supine group were analysed. The mYPAS score was not different in both groups before the application of facemask (40 [28-51] versus 40 [28-53]; P=0.99). It increased (P=0.005) to a similar extent in both groups following mask application without difference between groups (48 [38-60] versus 48 [35-63]; P=0.95). Side effects were not different between both groups.

In children undergoing inhalation induction, sitting or supine positions did not modify anxiety induced by the application of a facemask, nor adverse effects; therefore, children should be allowed to choose their preferred position.