Today, the medical world is experiencing unparalleled advancements on surgical and operational fronts. Although most of these procedures are life-saving, none of this could be possible if not for anesthesia. Anesthesia is one of the best medical discoveries, prior to surgeries were simply impossible or used to happen at the cost of considerable discomfort and sometimes patient death.
It numbs the patient’s sensations and causes unconsciousness, enabling painless and effective surgery. However, to ensure your anesthesia is smooth, a Chandler AZ anesthesiologist advises on some measures to take beforehand. Continue reading to learn more.
Ask Questions and Be Informed
If you have any concerns about your surgical procedure or a health issue that your doctor should know about, ensure you inform them as soon as possible. Your specialist will provide the support and guidance you need to enjoy a safe and successful procedure.
When and How to Fast
Avoid drinking or eating anything for at least 8 hours before surgery starts. Fasting reduces your risk of nausea, vomiting, and developing a rare but severe aspiration complication during anesthesia. Nonetheless, if allowed by your provider, you may take some water if you have to take pre-medication during your fast.
Medications and Supplements
Unless otherwise directed, you may keep taking your prescription meds until the day of surgery. However, taking medications for diabetes, blood thinners, and other health issues should be discussed with your doctor during your pre-surgery consultation.
For instance, blood thinners raise your risk of complications, whereas diabetic medications might require adjustments because of the fasting requirements before anesthesia. Likewise, you should inform your doctor about any over-the-counter supplements you use.
Quit Smoking
If you are a smoker, quitting for several days before and after your procedure is important. Smoking raises your risk of complications during surgery, ultimately resulting in the cancellation of your surgery.
Clothing and Jewelry
Ensure you wear loose-fitting clothing to your appointment, as you might have to undress to allow your surgeon to access certain areas. Moreover, you must remove any jewelry or other items that can hinder your procedure, so it is advisable to leave them at home. If you have eye surgery, your provider may also suggest you avoid wearing contact lenses.
Arrive Early
Ensure you arrive early before your appointment on the day of your procedure. Arriving early allows you time to check in, complete all the necessary paperwork, and ensure the procedure starts on time. Not feeling rushed also helps you relax before your sedation.
Arrange a Designated Ride
If you are undergoing general anesthesia, you should have a designated ride home after surgery. Anesthesia can impair your judgment, rendering it risky to drive. Besides, you might experience some drowsiness or other side effects from the anesthesia; thus, requiring help getting home safely.
Most individuals are nervous before a medical procedure, which is only natural. However, do not allow jitters to keep you from arranging a pre-operative consultation with your anesthesiologist. This consultation allows you to ask questions, share vital medical information, and obtain counseling on what to expect.
Thanks to anesthesia, you may now undergo surgeries and treatments without discomfort or pain. Based on your unique health concerns or a specific procedure, your anesthesiologist will partner with you to determine the best type of anesthesia for you.
