RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate children's behaviour during induction of general anaesthesia with parental participation. METHODS: A descriptive observational study in which the behaviour of the children was assessed using a Global Mood Scoring system before and during the induction of general anaesthesia, with their parents participating at induction. RESULTS: Parental participation in anaesthetic induction was beneficial in avoiding distress at parental separation without the use of preoperative sedation. Negative effects of parental participation were not encountered. CONCLUSIONS: Parental participation in anaesthetic induction of children can reduce distress at parental separation without any negative consequences. With proper preparation and education, parents should be encouraged to be present during the induction of general anaesthesia.
