Here are some Do’s and Don’ts for anesthesia
NOTE: You may have some of these side effects. If you do, please understand that most of these are minor and temporary!
Do:
Have a responsible adult accompany you.
Take only the medications you were specifically told to take by your doctor for the day of surgery with a small sip of water.
Remain NPO:
Absolutely NO food, drink, gum, or ice chips usually after midnight the day before surgery. This helps prevent you from vomiting while you are under anesthesia. Vomiting can be dangerous if it happens during anesthesia.
Remain at home for the day. Take it easy and rest.
Start slowly with liquids and slowly progress to a light meal. Medications stay in your system for 24 hours or more after they are given.
Don’t:
Drive a car for 24 hours after the procedure.
Operate equipment for 24 hours after the procedure.
Make important decisions or sign documents for the day.
Take any medication unless prescribed or discussed with your doctor.
Drink any alcohol.
What will the side effects from the anesthesia be?
Potential Nausea and Vomiting
Dry Mouth
Sore Throat
Hoarseness
Confusion
Chills
Sleepiness
Muscle Aches
What should I wear or bring to the office the day of my procedure?
Short Sleeved T-Shirt
Sweat Pants
Loose fitting / comfortable clothes
Bring a blanket
Your anesthesia paperwork filled out
Please leave all valuables at home
Day of Surgery
On the day of surgery, you should arrive at the Center approximately 30 minutes before surgery for pre-operative preparation. Your time of arrival may vary depending on your surgeon’s wishes.
You will also be asked to sign a “Consent for Treatment” form that acknowledges your permission for the physicians and facility to care for you. If the patient is a minor, a parent or legal guardian must sign this form so make sure this person accompanies the minor to the surgery.
Pre-Procedure
What medications and medical conditions should I notify my physician or Surgical Center about?
If you are taking any heart medications, blood pressure medications, blood thinners including aspirin or aspirin-like products (like ibuprofen), diet pills, herbal supplements or diabetes medications please contact us at:
In addition, please contact us if you have any of the following medical conditions:
Latex allergy or latex sensitivity
Diabetes
Heart conditions
Kidney or liver failure
Pregnancy
If you have been feeling ill lately (fever, cough, or other concerns)
Why can’t I have anything to eat or drink before surgery?
There are several reasons for this rule. First, if there are contents in your stomach, you are more likely to feel nauseated and get sick after surgery, and no one wants that. Second, when anything is present in your stomach, including water, excess saliva, food or drink, these contents can be regurgitated and inhaled into the lungs. This may cause complications, including severe pneumonias.
Why should I fill prescriptions that my physician has given me before I have my surgery?
After your procedure, you may be tired and groggy and may not be up to a trip to the pharmacy. Filling your prescriptions beforehand will be easier on you and you will have pain medications on hand when you need them.
Post-Procedure
What can I do to minimize pain after surgery?
If you are having a surgical procedure, you may experience normal pain afterwards. To minimize pain after an orthopedic procedure, ice and elevation of the affected extremity will help minimize swelling, reducing pain. If you have been given a prescription for pain medications, get them filled as soon as possible (before surgery). Stay on top of your pain by taking the pain medication when you first become aware of pain sensations. Remember, always eat before taking pain medications to avoid nausea.
If you or your loved one are having anesthesia then you may have questions and concerns. Please click the link for commonly asked Questions and Answers: https://www.usap.com/patients/understanding-anesthesia
