Anesthesia is a medical procedure that renders patients unconscious and unresponsive to pain during surgery or other medical procedures. It is one of the most important aspects of modern medicine, as it allows physicians to perform complex procedures without causing undue distress or pain to their patients.
Dr. Brian Blick is a renowned Anesthesiologist who is board certified and has gathered profound work experience in this field. He relocated to Elk City to begin work as an anesthesiologist immediately after graduation from medical school.
The basic idea of Anesthesia:
There are a number of different types of anesthesia, and the type that is best for each patient depends on a number of factors, including the type of procedure being performed, the patient’s health history, and the preferences of the doctor and patient.
In general, there are three main types of anesthesia: general anesthesia, which renders the entire body insensitive to pain; regional anesthesia, which numbs a specific area of the body; and local anesthesia, which only numbs a small area. No matter what type of anesthesia is used, the goal is always to keep the patient safe and comfortable while ensuring that they remain unresponsive to pain.
How to prepare for anesthesia:
Before Anesthesia:
- Before undergoing any type of anesthesia, it is important for patients to disclose their full medical history to their doctor. This includes any allergies, previous reactions to anesthesia, chronic health conditions, and current medications. Patients should also let their doctor know if they have ever had a problem with alcohol or drug abuse.
- It is also important for patients to fast before surgery. This means no solid food or liquids (including water) for at least eight hours before the procedure. The reason for this is to prevent nausea and vomiting during surgery, which can be dangerous.
- If the patient is scheduled for general anesthesia, they will need to arrange for someone to drive them home after the surgery. This is because general anesthesia can cause drowsiness and impair cognitive function for several hours afterward.
During Anesthesia:
- During the surgery, the anesthesiologist will constantly monitor the patient’s heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. They will also adjust the level of anesthesia as needed to keep the patient comfortable and safe.
- After the surgery is over, the anesthesiologist will slowly reduce the level of anesthesia. The patient will then be taken to a recovery room where they will be closely monitored until they are fully awake and responsive.
Post-Anesthesia:
- After anesthesia, it is common for patients to feel groggy and disoriented. This is normal and will gradually wear off as the anesthesia wears off.
- Patients should not drive or operate machinery until they are completely sober from the anesthesia. They should also avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours after the surgery.
Endnote:
It is important for patients to drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest after surgery. They should also avoid strenuous activity for at least a week to allow their body time to heal. If patient experiences any unusual side effects or problems after surgery, they should contact their anesthesiologists immediately, according to Dr. Blick.
