The objective of this study was to determine the incidence and predictors of intraoperative hypoxaemia and bradycardia in paediatric patients.

A single-arm prospective cohort study was conducted, and data collection was carried out from 15 February 2024 to 30 September 2024 at Wachemo University, Nigest Elleni Mohammed Memorial Comprehensive Specialised Hospital.

The study included all paediatric patients undergoing surgery who had American Society of Anaesthesiologists classes II and III.

Incidence and predictors of intraoperative hypoxaemia.

Incidence and predictors of intraoperative bradycardia.

The incidence of intraoperative hypoxaemia was 33.3%. Paediatric age (

This study has been conducted in a resource-limited setting and with methodological limitations such as short follow-up period, employing a single-arm cohort design, utilisation of sub-standardised intraoperative vital sign monitoring, proper intraoperative event documentation, over-reporting and under-reporting of the findings. This can cause overestimation of the incidence of hypoxaemia compared with studies conducted in a good resource set-up.

The incidence of intraoperative hypoxaemia and bradycardia, which is significantly associated with comorbidities, age (1 hour, is high in paediatric patients who undergo surgery with general anaesthesia.

Research registration unique identifying number (UIN) 10811 (https://www.researchregistry.com).