Post-anesthetic care

Post-Anesthetic Care

The Post-Anesthetic Care Unit provides recovery for most children from their anesthetic immediately after their surgery or procedure. The unit is staffed by specially trained nurses who will monitor your child closely during the early phase of their recovery. They are skilled at assessing your child’s reactions on awakening to determine whether they need any additional medication or treatment. The nurses work under the direction of the anesthesiologist to ensure your child has a safe and comfortable recovery.

For families

Your presence is important, and you will be called to be with your child as soon as possible. Usually only one parent is allowed in at a time, as the room can be crowded and there is little privacy. The Post-Anesthetic Care Unit is a large room that can also be quite noisy and may be disturbing. Please let the nurses know if you are feeling uncomfortable in any way.

Most children do not need to stay in the unit for very long before they may go back to the Surgical Day Care or up to their bed on the ward. Some children need to stay longer to ensure they are stable and comfortable.

For more information, please visit the following links:
Family Resource Centre
Post-Anesthetic Care Unit

Contact us

The Department of Anesthesia is responsible for the medical care in the Post-Anesthetic Care Unit.

BC Children’s Hospital
Post-Anesthetic Care Unit
c/o Department of Pediatric Anesthesia
4480 Oak Street
Vancouver, BC V6H 3V4

Phone: 604-875-2345, ext. 2711

Administrative contacts

Janice Penner, Program Manager, Surgical Suites
Phone: 604-875-2345, ext. 7962

Vicky Crompton, Director, Patient Care Services
Telephone: 604-875-2199

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