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Children undergoing surgery should be grouped into paediatric lists, or together at the start of mixed lists.^213,214

Preoperative fasting should be minimised as much as possible, especially for infants and younger children.²¹⁶

All clinical staff working with children should have up to date certification in safeguarding level 2.²⁰³

There should be a policy in place for pregnancy testing for young female patients under the age of 16 years. This policy should adhere to Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health guidance.²¹⁸

Information on the risks and the common adverse effects of anaesthesia in children, and the long-term effects of anaesthesia, should be discussed and offered in writing to children, parents and guardians.^209,219

Where designated separate areas for children are not available, discrete segregated areas in the pre and postoperative pathways should be available. They should be made as child friendly as possible.¹¹⁷

Children should never be left unattended in the recovery area.²²⁰

Children have an increased incidence of postoperative delirium. Recovery staff should have an increased awareness and there should be local protocols for the management of this condition.²⁰⁹

Children with learning disabilities should ideally be recovered in an area with lower levels of noise and lighting and a familiar presence, such as a parent or their carer.²⁰⁹

The presence of learning disability practitioners in recovery when a patient with learning disability is being recovered should be considered.²⁰⁹