Common events and risks for children and young people

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The infographic below shows common risks and events for healthy children and teenagers having a general anaesthetic for routine surgery. Specialist operations may carry different risks.

NOTE: we aim to review our resources every three years. We are currently in the process of updating these resources and we hope to publish the updated version by the end of 2026. In the meantime the information on these pages will still be useful to those who want to find out about the risks associated with anaesthesia in children.

Tell us what you think

If you are a patient of carer we would love to hear from you. By sharing your thoughts, you help us understand what works well and what could be clearer, so that users like you have the best possible information. If you have any other comments please email them to: patientinformation@rcoa.ac.uk

Thank you.

I am a:

Patient or carer

Clinician or healthcare professional

The following survey is about the patient information resources created by the Royal College of Anaesthetists (RCoA).

We’re not able to pass on any feedback or answer questions about your personal care. If you have a question about your treatment or would like to share feedback about the care you received, please contact your hospital’s Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) or your anaesthetic team. Thank you.

This resource has helped me understand what to expect before and after an operation or procedure

Yes

Maybe

I feel less anxious about surgery after using these resources

Yes

Maybe

The information made me feel reassured

Yes

Maybe

This resource felt relevant to me and respectful of my background and values

Yes

Maybe

What did you find most helpful?

Is there anything you would like to see included or explained differently?

If you live in the UK, what is your postcode?

We use this information to help us ensure that we reach as many people as possible

I live outside the UK

How did you find this website?

I am a:

Anaesthetist

Nurse

Surgeon

Other

I work in Preoperative Assessment:

Every week

Often

Never

Are you aware of our Easy Read and translated resources?

Yes – I find these useful

Yes – but I am not sure they are useful

No – not aware

This resource helps me explain to patients what to expect before and after an operation or procedure

Yes

Maybe

This resource saves me time during my consultation

Yes

Maybe

This resource makes my consultations with patients more satisfying and rewarding

Yes

Maybe

What changes could we make to help you inform and communicate better with your patients?

Which region do you work in?

Many thanks for taking the time to provide your feedback, which is much appreciated. Please now submit your responses below.