ABOUT YOUR ANESTHESIA CARE
Your anesthesia care team may consist of anesthesiologists and/or certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). Anesthesiologists are highly skilled physicians who specialize in the field of anesthesiology. CRNAs are specially trained registered nurses (RNs) who have completed a two- to three-year accredited nurse anesthesia training program.
PREOPERATIVE EVALUATION
An anesthesiologist or CRNA will speak with you to conduct a preoperative medical screening to tailor an anesthesia plan that is right for you. This may occur days before or the day of your surgical procedure. This assessment will help determine the appropriate type of anesthesia for you. During the preoperative evaluation, you will have an opportunity to ask any questions or discuss any special concerns you may have regarding your anesthesia plan.
PLANNING FOR SURGERY
Your Health Information Obtaining an accurate health history is important when preparing for surgery. Please be prepared to provide your team with an accurate list of all the medications you are currently taking, including vitamins and herbal medications. Change in Health
Be sure to contact your physician immediately if your medical condition should change before surgery, particularly if you should develop a cold or fever with congestion since this may compromise breathing and it may be necessary to reschedule your surgery.
SMOKING
If you are a smoker and are planning to have surgery, it is recommended that you take steps to quit smoking. Smokers have an increased chance of complications during and after surgery. The sooner you quit before surgery, the greater your chances of avoiding complications. It is especially important not to smoke 24 hours before surgery, and to remain off cigarettes for as long as possible after surgery.
TRANSPORTATION
You must make arrangements for a responsible adult to take you home after your surgery. It is strongly suggested that you arrange to have someone stay with you during the first 12 to 24 hours following surgery. If you have questions about returning to work, please consult your physician.
THE DAY OF SURGERY
For your safety, preoperative instructions must be strictly followed. Neglecting any instructions may result in the cancellation of your surgery.
EATING & DRINKING
As a general rule, you should not eat or drink anything after midnight before your surgery. DO NOT EAT ANYTHING FOR SIX HOURS BEFORE ANY TYPE OF ANESTHESIA. NO GUM, MINTS OR SUCKING CANDY. In some circumstances, you may be permitted by your physician or anesthesiologist/CRNA to have clear liquids up to two hours before your surgery. Examples of clear liquids include water, fruit juices WITHOUT pulp, clear tea, and black coffee.
COLONOSCOPY and/or ENDOSCOPY PATIENTS
Please follow your physician’s detailed instructions regarding bowel preparation and ingestion of clear liquids.
MEDICATIONS
Continue to take your regular medications the morning of surgery with a small sip of water, unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
DIABETICS
Please do not take any insulin injections or oral diabetes medications on the morning of surgery. Perform your usual home testing of blood sugar levels.
CLOTHING / ACCESSORIES
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that are easy to remove and replace after surgery. Do not wear eye makeup, artificial eyelashes, contact lenses, any jewelry, hairpieces, hairpins, or barrettes. Please leave all valuables at home.