Hi,
You are right Ketamine has a half life of "2" hours, however after the c/s
the mother is given a reversal agent thus eliminating it from her system much
faster.
In the event of a lengthy explanation, I would refer you to Thomas Hales
Medication and Mothers milk pages 6-12.
There is an explanation about drug transfer into mothers milk. and relative
infant dose of medication.

I have seen Ketamine used frequently in emergency c/s as well as  with a
failed epidurals.
The mothers were able to breastfeed after retuning to the room.
The anesthesiologist point was "if the patient is alert and awake enough to
want to breastfeed,the medication has left her system."

Ketamine is used  because of its ability to produce a safe and rapid
induction. It is also rapidly and easily reversed.
I have had mothers back for six week tubal ligations and breastfeed after
surgery.

Your concern of infant safety, as well as preserving  the mothers
breastfeeding experience should be commended.
I do think if you can read the first few pages of Hales 2002 medication book
, this might assist you with changing some policies.
It is always nice to be able to provide some evidence based documentation
when going agaist the norm.

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