Information Brochure

Anesthesia for Adults having Surgery

From the out-patient area you will be taken, on a carrier, to the holding area. The nurse will verify your ID, ID band, and your procedure. In the holding area you will have your IV started and any preparation needed. The Anesthetist/Anesthesiologist will meet with you to discuss any problems or questions you may have. Medications may be given as ordered by your physician.

Next, you will be taken to the operating room and transferred to the surgery table. Safety belts are used across each arm and across your legs. You will be placed on a cardiac (heart) monitor, an automatic blood pressure cuff, and a pulse oximeter probe will be placed on your finger (this measures your oxygen level). When everything is set your surgery will begin.

After surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room for approximately 1/2 to 1 hour. The nurse will remain with you during this time. You will be asked to take deep breaths and cough. This is important to help reduce the risk of lung infection after general anesthesia. Your nurse will help you with these cough and deep breathing exercises. If you are having any discomforts, such as pain, nausea, dizziness, itching, etc. please let the nurse know. They will be able to help you with better positioning, warm blankets, medications, etc.

Following the recovery room you will be taken to your assigned room. Your vital signs will be taken routinely and your surgical dressing checked. The nurses will be glad to do whatever is needed to make you comfortable. When you are awake enough, and it is ok with your doctor, you may have something to drink. The cough and deep breathing exercises will be continued with the help of the nurses. If you are having pain or other discomforts, please let the nurse know. Medications will be ordered by your physician. Gas pain is often experienced after abdominal surgery and is relieved by walking. You may find you have a small drain tube close to your incision or a foley catheter depending on your surgical procedure.

We hope your recovery will go smoothly and you will be home soon.