OBJECTIVE. Identify and analyze scientific literature with broad validity, quality and level of evidence, in order to establish a basis for generating recommendations for the care of children with ASD in the perioperative period and to determine the role that the presence of parents and caregivers plays in this context. METHODOLOGY. Through a literature review, 7 studies were identified regarding the management of the perioperative period in children with ASD. These studies were evaluated in terms of methodology, relevance, internal and external validity, significance and level of evidence. RESULTS. The determining factors in the perioperative process of children with ASD are: the flexibility of the hospital environment, healthcare personnel, recognition of the caregiver as an expert, the presence of parents and the individualized care plans. CONCLUSION. The presence of parents during the surgical process, especially during anesthetic induction and the postoperative period, helps calm children with ASD, reduces anxiety, prevents complications, and allows for immediate measures to be taken that contribute to a better experience for the children.