Pediatric patient selection and provider issues

In this article some factors that influence the safety of anesthesia care for infants and children are reviewed. In particular elements of training and ongoing experience necessary for the safe provision of pediatric anesthesia care are identified and also the necessary support needed in terms of personnel and facilities. Several guidelines relating to the provision of pediatric anesthesia care are reviewed. Finally, those infants and children who are at increased anesthetic risk are identified. It is essential that the needs of these at risk patients and the capabilities of the provider and facility are matched.