What to Expect
If you are undergoing a surgical procedure, one of our RNs trained in pre-anesthesia assessment will contact you. They will review your medical history and medications to ensure that you are ready for your anesthetic. If you have any special concerns or needs from your anesthesia provider, it is helpful to let our RN know during this call. Additionally, your surgeon/proceduralist may request testing, such as laboratory tests or EKGs, and/or specialist appointments to ensure that you are ready for surgery.
If you are undergoing an endoscopic procedure, such as a colonoscopy or EGD, our pre-anesthesia RNs will review your chart prior to your procedure. One of our staff may contact you if we have additional questions about your health. In some instances, after reviewing your health information, we may request additional testing and/or specialist appointments to ensure that you are ready to undergo the procedure as safely as possible.
On the day before your procedure, your anesthesia provider will attempt to contact you. If we are unable to reach you because you are busy, or because we are caring for other patients, please be assured that we will have plenty of time to discuss your medical history and anesthesia care on the day of the procedure.
The type of anesthesia offered to you will depend on your health and the procedure being performed. Your anesthesia provider will discuss the anesthetic plan with you prior to the procedure. One of our providers will be with you at all times during your procedure, regardless of the anesthetic type performed, to ensure that you are safe and comfortable.
It is very important to follow certain eating and drinking rules provided by your surgeon or anesthesia provider before your procedure. If your stomach is not empty at the time of anesthesia, stomach contents can come up and enter the lungs and may cause serious problems. It is possible that your procedure will be rescheduled or delayed if these rules are not followed.
