Information for Patients: Preparing for Anesthesia and Surgery
Pre-anesthetic Interview/Testing
You’ve met with your surgeon, gotten a second
opinion if desired, and are now scheduled to have the operation. The
next appointment will likely be scheduled the week before surgery for
preoperative learning and possibly some testing. This is your chance to
ask questions about preparing for the surgery and to discuss any special
needs you might have. It is important that you are an active partner in
your care and wellness.
A nurse or an anesthesia provider may do the pre-anesthetic interview.
The goal of the interview is to identify potential risks to you before
you are given anesthesia and to discuss the type of anesthetic you’ll
receive. A history and physical will be completed. Testing may be
requested [blood testing, chest X-ray, electrocardiogram, respiratory
testing] depending on your age and physical condition. In some cases as
indicated by your overall health and the type of surgery no testing may
be needed.
It’s very important to share information about your medical history.
Bring a list of all medications and current dosages you’re taking.
This list should include prescription and nonprescription medications as
well as herbal or vitamin supplements. Be honest about any use of street
drugs which can react dangerously with some anesthesia drugs. If you
have a history of heart or lung trouble, your regular cardiologist or
internist may be asked to give a medical recommendation regarding your
health before the anesthesia is given. The goal is for your health to be
at its best before you are given anesthesia.
If you take medications regularly, you should be told which medicines to
take before surgery. This information should be provided to you in
writing to prevent any confusion. If you are diabetic, you will need
special dosing instructions on your insulin or oral medications in
preparation for the surgery.
At the end of this appointment you should feel confident about how to
prepare for the day of surgery, know what to generally expect when you
arrive at the facility for the procedure, and have an understanding of
what physical things you will do before returning home. In some cases
you may discuss your anesthesia and surgical preparation by a telephone
call instead of a visit to the facility. |
