ABSTRACT
A complete range of monitoring equipment suitable for infant use is required.
Neonates perceive pain, while even babies born at 28 weeks’ gestation mount a substantial and potentially harmful response to surgically induced stress.12,13 Thus, few would argue with the contention that adequate anesthesia should be provided for all infants undergoing surgery. The anesthetic agents employed are similar to those used for older children and adults. However the responses of the neonate to these potent drugs differ in a number of respects from those of older patients. An understanding of these differences is essential for the safe conduct of neonatal anesthesia and also influences choice of anesthetic agent and technique.
