Department of Anaesthesia at College of Health Sciences (CoHS), Gulf Medical University (GMU), collaborated with the Department of Operation Theatre Technology, Mangala College of Paramedical & Allied Health Sciences, to successfully organize an International Webinar on “General Anaesthesia in Children: Principles and Clinical Practice” on 6 July 2026.
The webinar brought together more than 80 third-year Diploma and Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) students from the Departments of Anaesthesia and Operation Theatre Technology. The programme provided participants with an excellent opportunity to interact with an international academic expert and strengthen their knowledge of paediatric anaesthesia through an engaging and clinically focused learning experience.
The keynote session was delivered by Ms. Aparnna Baburaj, Lecturer, Department of Anaesthesia Technology, College of Health Sciences, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, UAE. Her presentation offered a comprehensive overview of the principles and clinical practice of paediatric general anaesthesia, highlighting the unique anatomical and physiological characteristics of children and their implications for safe anaesthetic management.
The webinar provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of the unique anatomical and physiological characteristics of children and their influence on anaesthetic management. The session highlighted key aspects of paediatric airway anatomy, safe induction techniques, difficult airway management, fluid calculation, temperature regulation, perioperative monitoring, and the recognition and management of anaesthesia-related complications. Special emphasis was placed on evidence-based practice, patient safety, and individualized perioperative care to optimize outcomes in paediatric patients.
Session Highlights
Ms. Aparnna’s presentation covered the following key topics:
- Paediatric anatomical and physiological differences relevant to anaesthesia.
- Airway assessment and management in infants and children.
- Selection of appropriate airway equipment and endotracheal tubes.
- Principles of inhalational and intravenous induction.
- Fluid calculation and perioperative fluid management.
- Temperature regulation and prevention of perioperative hypothermia.
- Monitoring standards during paediatric anaesthesia.
- Recognition and management of common perioperative complications.
- Evidence-based approaches to improving patient safety in paediatric anaesthesia.
Using practical clinical scenarios, current recommendations, and interactive discussions, the webinar effectively connected theoretical concepts with real-world clinical practice. Students actively participated throughout the session and engaged enthusiastically in the question-and-answer segment, discussing paediatric airway emergencies, anaesthetic drug selection, fluid therapy, and strategies to enhance patient safety.
Beyond the academic content, Ms. Aparnna also shared her inspiring professional journey from India to an international academic career at Gulf Medical University, UAE. She offered valuable insights into higher education opportunities, career planning, professional networking, continuous skill development, and preparing for successful careers in healthcare both nationally and internationally. She encouraged students to remain professionally active through platforms such as LinkedIn, continually upgrade their clinical knowledge, and develop competencies that support global career opportunities.
The interactive format of the webinar encouraged active student participation and meaningful discussions, making the session both academically enriching and professionally inspiring. The programme was highly informative and well received by students and faculty members, who appreciated its practical approach, clinical relevance, and engaging delivery. The webinar further reinforced the institution’s commitment to promoting academic excellence, fostering international collaboration, and supporting continuous professional development in allied health sciences.
The Department extends its sincere gratitude to Ms. Aparnna Baburaj for sharing her expertise and inspiring students through her academic excellence and professional experiences. Appreciation is also extended to the management, faculty members, organizing committee, and all participants whose support contributed to the successful conduct of this international webinar.
Dr. Praveen Kumar, Dean, College of Health Sciences, GMU stated “Our faculty’s engagement in international academic collaborations reflects GMU’s commitment to excellence in allied health education. Ms. Aparnna Baburaj’s insightful session on paediatric general anaesthesia provided our students with valuable clinical knowledge while reinforcing the importance of patient safety, evidence-based practice, and professional development in anaesthesia technology.”
