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Peri-anesthesia nurses keep surgery safe for children

2 February 2026

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For Thanh Luu, a Pediatric PACU Nurse at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, some of the most memorable moments of her career come from small acts that leave a lasting impact. She recalls a six-year-old patient recovering from surgery. Over three hours, Thanh cared for her, answered her questions about healthcare, and even coloured with her between medical care. At discharge, the child asked, “Can I give you a hug? You’ve been working so hard. My heart grew three times its size at that moment,” Thanh says. “She left a lifelong mark on my career that I won’t soon forget.”

Like all peri-anesthesia nurses, Thahn ensures that her patients are safe and comfortable. She cares for patients from tiny infants to growing teens, managing airways, monitoring vital signs, controlling pain, and staying alert to subtle changes the moment patients wake from anesthesia.

“Every day in the Pediatric PACU is fast-paced, dynamic, and full of purpose, says Pediatric PACU Nurse Manager Annie Castro. “Our nurses balance vigilance, compassion and efficiency while supporting families through some of the most vulnerable moments.”

“This team is outstanding,” adds Annie. “Not only are they clinically excellent, but they are also incredibly intuitive, patient, and creative. We are lucky to have them.”