Blood Glucose Levels in Children During Anesthesia

This cross-sectional study aims to investigate blood glucose levels in children < 18 years during general anesthesia, and explore the incidence of hypoglycemia after anesthesia induction in relation to preoperative fasting.

The purpose is to evaluate whether guidelines for shortening the preoperative fasting period of children at our hospital have resulted in a shorter fasting duration and prevalence of low blood glucose levels during anesthesia induction. Also to shed light on blood glucose levels during general anesthesia and its correlation with intravenous fluid management and administration of steroidal anti-emetics.

Blood glucose sampling will be obtained and measured following anesthesia induction and prior to discontinuing the anesthetic agent. If general anesthesia lasts longer than one hour, additional blood glucose analysis will be conducted one hour after the first measurement.

Inclusion criteria

Children under 18 years of age who undergo intervention under general anesthesia. The parent or guardian understands and speaks Icelandic.

Exclusion criteria

Coexisting disease or treatment that may affect fasting blood glucose level; Preoperative intravenous fluid administration; Beta-blockers; Insulin and corticosteroids, endocrine disorders, acute pain, and emergency interventions.