A dedicated pediatric approach completely changes how young patients experience surgery. It allows Dr. Hummel to transform what could be a terrifying moment into a calm, trust-filled process for both children and parents.

Transforming the Surgical Experience for Children

The operating room can feel overwhelming for young children with prior hospital stays. Standard clinical approaches often rely on speed. They are known for causing intense distress, long-term hospital phobias, and emotional trauma for parents.

Child-First Engagement: Meeting young patients in pre-op on their own level. Toys or stuffed animals are used to walk through the steps first.

No-Force Induction: Allowing the child to hold the mask or practice on a favorite toy. This makes them go to sleep voluntarily.
Parental Peace of Mind: Removing the chaotic, tearful handoffs that leave families panicked in the waiting room.

Reframing Pediatric Anesthesiology

"When a six-year-old enters an operating room, fear is usually the biggest obstacle we face," says Dr. Hummel. "If we rush or force the mask, we leave a lasting scar. By taking an extra five minutes to make the process interactive, like letting their favorite teddy bear go to sleep first, we change the entire dynamic. The child goes under calmly. The parents also wait with confidence rather than fear."

A truly patient-focused approach helps nervous children feel protected and supported from the start. Easing that anxiety sets the stage for better clinical results. It leads to a noticeably smoother recovery.

Dr. Andrew Hummel, MD, anesthesiology leader, also maintains a full-scope practice beyond pediatric care. He specializes in advanced regional nerve blocks, complex adult cases, and ongoing board preparation mentorship for resident physicians.
Dr. Hummel maintains the highest standards of safety and empathy by:

Earning trust early
Addressing pre-surgery fear directly
Designing personalized anesthetic strategies

His overarching mission is simple. He believes in guiding patients through every phase of surgery with complete confidence, ease, and peace of mind.

About Dr. Andrew Hummel, MD, Anesthesiology

Board-certified anesthesiologist Dr. Andrew Hummel, MD, combines high-level clinical leadership with a deeply personal approach to care. A former Medical Director and six-time 417 Top Doctor Award winner with active ACLS and PALS credentials, his broad clinical background drives his focus on full-spectrum perioperative management, expert airway handling, and supportive patient encounters.