Madrid, October 23, 2025 - In an effort to improve the experience of minors in surgical settings, the Ministry of Health has released a new set of guidelines that facilitate parental or guardian accompaniment during the induction of anesthesia. This initiative aims to foster a more humane and welcoming environment within pediatric care, addressing the anxiety that many children experience before surgery.
Coordinated by the General Sub-Directorate for Quality of Care of the Directorate-General of Public Health and Health Equity, the document has been developed with the collaboration of autonomous humanization departments, healthcare professionals, and scientific societies, including the Spanish Society of Anesthesia, Resuscitation and Pain Therapy (SEDAR) and the Spanish Society of Pediatric Surgery (SECP).
The guideline recognizes that around 60% of minors experience nervousness or fear before entering the operating room. The presence of a trusted person during this process not only helps mitigate these emotions, but also improves the child's cooperation with the medical team and reinforces crucial safety aspects, such as adherence to preoperative fasting and the review of contraindications.
The protocol specifies that the presence of the parents will be voluntary and planned in advance, with priority for children under five years of age and those with special needs, provided that clinical conditions permit. Life-threatening emergencies or limitations on space and sanitary safety are excluded.
The recommendations range from the preanesthetic consultation, where the accompanying person's participation is explained and authorized, to the postanesthetic recovery phase. Applications are also considered in areas such as interventional radiology and pediatric oncology, adapting the measure to the specific needs of each department.
It should be stressed that accompaniment must be carried out without interfering with clinical activity and under strict medical supervision, with clear rules for companions regarding conduct and hygiene. Additionally, an evaluation system will be implemented through satisfaction surveys and periodic reviews to ensure its continuous improvement and adaptation to the most recent scientific evidence.
With this measure, the Ministry of Health reaffirms its commitment to more accessible, respectful and safe healthcare, in line with the principles of quality, equity and humanization of the National Health System. This initiative marks a significant step toward transforming the hospital experience for younger patients.
Fuente: Ministerio de Sanidad
