Effect of Lollipop on Emergence Delirium in Pediatric Patients Undergoing General Anesthesia

Emergence agitation is a common postoperative complication in pediatric patients undergoing general anesthesia, particularly with sevoflurane. It is characterized by confusion, restlessness, inconsolable crying, and disorientation during the early recovery period. This condition can lead to self-injury, increased stress for caregivers, and challenges in postoperative management.

Various pharmacological interventions have been used to reduce emergence agitation; however, these may be associated with side effects such as delayed recovery or respiratory depression. Therefore, non-pharmacological approaches that are safe, simple, and effective are needed.

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of lollipop administration as a non-pharmacological intervention to reduce emergence agitation in pediatric patients following surgery under sevoflurane anesthesia at RS Ngoerah.

Eligible pediatric patients undergoing surgery with general anesthesia using sevoflurane will be included in this study. After surgery, patients will receive standard postoperative care, and the intervention group will be given a lollipop during the recovery period. The control group will receive standard care without lollipop administration.

The level of emergence agitation will be assessed using a validated scoring system at specified time intervals in the postoperative recovery room. Additional observations may include duration of agitation, need for rescue medication, and recovery profile.

The primary outcome of this study is the difference in the incidence and severity of emergence agitation between the intervention and control groups. Secondary outcomes include recovery time and any adverse events associated with the intervention.

The findings of this study are expected to provide evidence for a simple, safe, and cost-effective method to improve postoperative recovery in pediatric patients.

Inclusion criteria

• Pediatric patients aged 2-6 years
• Scheduled for elective surgery under general anesthesia with sevoflurane
• American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I-II
• Written informed consent obtained from parents or legal guardians

Exclusion criteria

• Known allergy or contraindication to study-related procedures
• Developmental delay or neurological disorders affecting behavior assessment
• Use of sedative or psychoactive medications prior to surgery
• History of emergence delirium or significant behavioral disorders
• Intraoperative complications requiring deviation from standard anesthesia protocol