A clinical case study: parent-present induction of anesthesia in children

Until recently, the doors to the operating room (OR) remained closed to parents. It is well known that children undergoing surgery experience distress when separated from their parents. Like other hospitals throughout the country, Children's Hospital in Boston has responded to this distress by implementing a parent-present induction of anesthesia (PPI) program. This program has changed significantly the surgical experience for many children and families. A composite case study based on several children and parents who have participated in PPI illustrates collaboration between nursing and anesthesia staff, preparation of the parent and child, the parent's OR experience, and the generally successful outcomes of this PPI program.