Anesthesia in the Pediatric & Neonatal Patient

Similar to geriatric patients, those on the opposite end of the spectrum have their own anesthetic idiosyncrasies. After birth, organ systems are immature and continue to develop through the first three months of life. The use of anesthesia during this period often carries increased risk and can provide challenges to the anesthetist. Therefore, understanding the physiologic differences is critical in preventing morbidity and mortality. Examination of these differences with emphasis on how they influence anesthetic management and drug selection will be the focus of this session along with a discussion of common complications and strategies in both preventing and treating them. Insight from both veterinary and human literature on pediatric and neonatal anesthesia will be explored.

• 1) Be able to understand fetal physiology and the changes that occur through maturation into adulthood
• 2) Be able to explain how physiology of the neonate and/or pediatric patient is affected by anesthetic medications
• 3) Be able to develop anesthetic protocols and ensure proper preparation and management of the neonatal or pediatric patient.
• 4) Be able to address common complications and utilize knowledge regarding pediatric physiology to promote successful outcomes