Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 12, 2025

Halogenated Agent Delivery in Porcine Model of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome via an Intensive Care Unit Type Device
Published on: September 24, 2020
[SARS-CoV-2 positive child-What to do if inhalation induction of anesthesia is unavoidable?]
Nicolas Leister1, Sirin Yücetepe2, Christoph Ulrichs2
1Klinik für Anästhesiologie und Operative Intensivmedizin, Uniklinik Köln, Kerpener Straße 62, 50937, Köln, Deutschland. nicolas.leister@uk-koeln.de.
Insights
Inhalation anesthesia induction is common in pediatric patients but poses infection risks during the COVID-19 pandemic. This case study presents a method to safely perform inhalation anesthesia when unavoidable in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Anesthesiology
- Infectious Disease Control
Background:
- Inhalation anesthesia induction is frequently used in pediatric patients, particularly those with difficult venous access or uncooperative behavior.
- The APRICOT study revealed that 48% of pediatric patients in Europe undergo inhalation induction.
- The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened concerns regarding aerosol generation during inhalation anesthesia, increasing infection risks.
Abstract:
Induction of anesthesia by inhalation is very common in children due to difficult venous conditions and especially in uncooperative children. During the study on complications in the pediatric anesthesia in Europe (APRICOT study) including almost 30,000 patients, 48% of the children were induced by inhalation.Under the conditions of the corona pandemic, however, induction of anesthesia by inhalation represents an increased risk of infection due to the potential release of aerosols. Rapid sequence induction is recommended for anesthesia induction and definitive airway management for adults and children in the current pandemic situation.The present case demonstrates that there can be situations in children in which induction of anesthesia by inhalation is unavoidable and shows a potential procedure for reducing the risk of infection for the anesthesia personnel.
Related Concept Videos
Inhalational Anesthetics: Overview
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway
Equipment Required
Transmission-based Precautions II: Airborne and Protective Environment
Airborne precautions:
Use airborne precautions when treating patients known or suspected to have diseases that spread through the air—for example, tuberculosis or measles. These organisms are present in smaller droplets expelled by an infected person and...
Acute Respiratory Failure-III
Acute Respiratory Failure-V
Ensure that patients are monitored continuously for their response to therapy, including changes in...

