**Question:** Anaesthesia of choice for induction in children is:

A. Propofol
B. Thiopentone
C. Sevoflurane
D. Ketamine

**Correct Answer:** C. Sevoflurane

**Core Concept:** Anaesthesia induction in children is often guided by factors such as age, weight, and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification. Ideally, a balanced anaesthetic technique, combining rapid onset and minimal side effects, is desired.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**

Sevoflurane (C. Sevoflurane) is a volatile anaesthetic agent used in general anaesthesia for its rapid onset, good cardiovascular stability, and minimal respiratory depression in children. Its low protein binding allows for faster equilibration between blood and tissues, resulting in faster induction. It also has an excellent cardiovascular profile, maintaining blood pressure and heart rate within the normal limits during anaesthesia. Sevoflurane has minimal respiratory depression, making it suitable for children with underlying lung diseases.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**

A. Propofol (D. Propofol) is a short-acting intravenous anaesthetic agent, often used for rapid induction and maintenance of anaesthesia in children. However, its rapid clearance and short duration of action may lead to longer recovery times and increased postoperative agitation.

B. Thiopentone (B. Thiopentone) is a short-acting intravenous barbiturate used for induction of anaesthesia. It has a rapid onset and short duration of action, similar to Propofol. However, it has higher respiratory depression and cardiovascular instability compared to Sevoflurane, making it less suitable for paediatric patients.

D. Ketamine (Propofol) is an intravenous anaesthetic agent used for induction and maintenance of anaesthesia. It has a rapid onset and provides analgesia, amnesia, and sedation, but has a higher risk of cardiovascular instability and increased incidence of emergence delirium in children, making Sevoflurane the preferred choice.

**Clinical Pearl:** When choosing anaesthesia agents for paediatric patients, consider factors such as age, weight, ASA physical status, and the specific procedure being performed. Sevoflurane offers a balance between rapid induction, cardiovascular stability, and minimal respiratory depression, making it the preferred induction agent for most paediatric procedures.