Day surgery for children

Children requiring minor operations are increasingly managed in the ambulatory environment. This has the potential to provide high-quality care with minimal disruption to family life.This article summarizes the inclusion criteria for paediatric day-case surgery that, in general, include minor operations on children of ASA (American Society of Anesthesiology) score 1–2 of more than 60 weeks post-menstrual age. Discharge criteria are also listed.The emphasis on safe discharge includes the treatment and prevention of postoperative nausea/vomiting and pain as well as the avoidance of prolonged sedation or motor block.