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During the procedure,
anaesthesia allows you to be free of pain. All
anaesthesia care is provided
with the highest degree of
professionalism, including
constant monitoring of every important body
function. As changes occur in
your reactions to anaesthesia, the
anaesthetist responds with
modifications of the anaesthetic to ensure
your safety and
comfort
In addition to their
role in the procedure itself, anaesthetists make
many preparations for you before
surgery. You can -- and should --
take an active role in these
preparations by communicating
and cooperating with your
anaesthetist and your
surgeon.
There are
several kinds of
anaesthesia.
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 anaesthetist is key in the
selection of the best
anaesthetic for you.
In
particular, you must speak freely and follow
instructions closely regarding
your intake of medications, food, or beverages
before anaesthesia. Such
substances can react negatively with anaesthetic
drugs and
chemicals.
The preoperative
interview is essential to effective
communication.
This
confidential discussion with the anaesthetist
prior to surgery provides
information vital to your care. To help you
prepare for the interview, we
have included a questionnaire for you to
fill out and bring along to the
preoperative interview. Information supplied by
the questionnaire assists your
anaesthetist in doing the interview
thoroughly and
efficiently.
Different types
of patients or procedures may require different
types of anaesthesia.
Pregnancy and anaesthesia
Pregnant patients should prepare before
the onset of labor for
the possibility of having an anaesthetic, even
if a natural childbirth is
planned. During pregnancy, keep accurate
records of allergies, high blood
pressure, prescriptions, and over-
the- counter medications. The use
of drugs, including recreational
drugs and alcohol, can increase
the risk of anaesthetic complications
for both mother and
baby.
Seniors and anaesthesia
Older adults go through complex physical
changes while aging which may
affect their bodies' response to
anaesthesia.You or your family
can assist the anaesthetist by
providing a detailed list of all
medications, including aspirin, taken
regularly.
Surgery
preparation Patients with hereditary disorders
such as diabetes and sickle cell
anemia need special attention. These
conditions can be managed
properly if the anaesthetist knows about
them before a procedure.
Children should be specially prepared
for anaesthesia, and for surgery
in general. Allow them to bring
favorite toys along for
their stay. Make frequent reference to things
children will enjoy after the
procedure. If possible, take children on a
hospital tour and let them talk
with hospital personnel, particularly the
anaesthetist.
Preoperative
interview for ambulatory care 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, preparations should be
made before ambulatory surgery
for another adult to accompany you to
the healthcare facility, drive
you home, and monitor your
recovery.
Remember:
Communication and
cooperation are essential to the anaesthesia
process.
• Speak frankly. •
Ask questions. •
Follow instructions.
• Provide your
anaesthetist with a medical history.
• Notify your nurse
anaesthetist or doctor immediately of any change
in
your physical condition prior to surgery.
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