Anxiety in children, as well as their parents, is common in high-tech environments such as an operating room. This study aimed to describe parents\' experiences of being present when their child is being anaesthetised. Twenty-four parents were interviewed and data were analysed using a descriptive phenomenological approach. Findings show that being present at a child\'s anaesthesia and surgery is a long, continuous process that begins at home. Parents struggle to face strong emotions in a special and frightening environment, focussing on their child\'s well-being while trying to remain control in this situation. Security and trust are vital, but it\'s challenging to relinquish control in an uncertain situation. Professional caregivers can promote trust and participation, but an awareness that something can go wrong affects parents on a deep level. In conclusion, parental presence at induction of anaesthesia is important but can be overwhelming and anxiety-inducing for some parents. Parents should be seen as a resource rather than a disturbance. Overall, the healthcare system should prioritise parents\' involvement and seek to create an environment where they feel supported and included.

OBJECTIVE: To interpret and understand the interplay between children, their parents, and anaesthetic staff to gain a greater understanding of children being anaesthetised.
BACKGROUND: Anaesthesia induction is a stressful procedure for the child and parents in the technologically advanced environment in the operating room (OR). Anaesthesia staff are a key resource for ensuring safety and interplays, but the meeting is often short, intensive, and can affect the child and the parent.
METHODS: A qualitative observational design with a hermeneutic approach.
METHODS: Twenty-seven non-participant observations were conducted and videotaped when children were being anaesthetised. The SRQR checklist was used.
RESULTS: The result is presented as a theatre play with three headings; the scene, the actors, and the plot. The scene was not designed for the child or the parent\'s comfort and could lead to anxiety and insecurity. Four themes described the interplays: The need to be inviting and to be invited, The need for varying compliance, The need for mutual dependence, and The need to give and to receive emotional support. The plot could lead to uncertainty, and the interplay could change between being caring and uncaring depending on the actors.
CONCLUSIONS: The technologically advanced environment in the OR constituted an emotional obstacle, but the anaesthesia staff themselves can be a powerful resource creating a caring environment. The outcome of the plot may depend on the anaesthesia staff\'s bearing.
CONCLUSIONS: A caring approach in the OR requires a willingness from the anaesthesia staff to invite the child to participate and find a balance between helping the parents to find their place in the OR and support them in supporting their child. The findings can start reflections in the unit on how to create a more caring environment.