Patients
Your Active Role Makes a Difference
Anesthesia is a Major Part of Your Surgery
Each year, millions of people in the United States undergo some form of medical treatment requiring anesthesia. In the hands of qualified anesthesia professionals such as Certified Register Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs), anesthesia is a safe and effective means of alleviating pain during nearly every type of medical procedure.
All anesthesia care is provided with the highest degree of professionalism, including constant monitoring of every important body function. As changes occur in your reactions to anesthesia, your anesthesia professional responds with modifications of the anesthetic to ensure your safety and comfort.
In addition to their role in the procedure itself, anesthesia professionals make many preparations for you before surgery. You can - and should - take an active role in these preparations by communicating and cooperating with your anesthesia professional and surgeon.
There are Several Kinds of Anesthesia
The one chosen for you is based on factors such as your physical condition, the nature of the surgery, and your reactions to medications. Frank and open discussion with your anesthesia professional is key in the selection of the best anesthetic for you.
In particular, you must speak freely and follow instructions closely regarding your intake of medications, food, or beverages before anesthesia. Such substances can react negatively with anesthetic drugs and chemicals.
Ambulatory care allows you to go home the same day as your surgery. It is important, however, to provide the same accurate information during the preoperative interview. In addition, preparation should before ambulatory surgery for another adult to accompany you to the healthcare facility, drive you home, and monitor your recovery.
Different Types of Patients or Procedures May Require Different Types of Anesthesia
Older adults: go through complex physical changes while aging that may affect their body’s response to anesthesia. You or your family can assist your anesthesia professional by providing a detailed list of all medications, including aspirin, taken regularly. Patients with hereditary disorders, such as diabetes and sickle cell anemia, need special attention. These conditions can be managed properly if their anesthesia professional knows about them before a procedure.
Children: should be specially prepared for anesthesia, and for surgery in general. Allow them to bring favorite toys along for their stay. Make frequent references to things that children will enjoy after the procedure. If possible, take children on a hospital tour and let them talk with hospital personnel, particularly their anesthesia professional.
The Preoperative Interview is Essential to Effective Communication
This confidential discussion with your anesthesia professional prior to surgery provides information vital to your care. To help you prepare for the interview, this website contains a questionnaire to fill out and bring along to the preoperative interview. Information supplied by the questionnaire will assist your anesthesia professional in doing the interview thoroughly and efficiently.
Remember…
Speak frankly. Ask questions. Follow instructions. Provide your anesthesia professional with a medical history. And notify your anesthesia professional or surgeon immediately of any change in your physical condition prior to surgery. Communication and cooperation are essential to the anesthesia process.