Will I be asleep during my surgery?
During general anesthesia you should plan on being 'asleep' during your operation. As stated earlier, there are differences between the unconsciousness produced during general anesthesia and natural sleep. However the goal of general anesthesia is to render the patient unconscious and oblivious to their surroundings – very similar to our impression of sleep. It is also interesting to note that some – but not all – patients do dream during their general anesthetic. During regional or local anesthesia particularly when sedation is given, you may also sleep. Typically this type of anesthesia provides less medication and a lighter sleep than general anesthesia.
Will I wake up during my surgery?
If you are having general anesthesia, you should not wake up during surgery. Your anesthesia professional will be working hard to ensure that a sufficient amount of medication is given to you to produce the state of unconsciousness that is typical of general anesthesia. During the anesthesia, you will be asleep (unconscious) – perhaps even with dreaming – throughout the entire operation. With the other forms of anesthesia like regional or local anesthesia with sedation, it is more likely that you will wake up during surgery. Because the numbing medicine used during these types of anesthesia are designed to prevent pain, many patients wake up during surgery but are not uncomfortable. If you have pain during a local or regional anesthesia procedure, it is important to tell your anesthesia professional immediately.
Who takes care of me during my anesthesia?
An anesthesia professional will be involved in your care during anesthesia. These professionals have had training in anesthesia care, in the treatment of pain, in the care of very ill patients, and in emergency care. Your anesthesia professional is responsible for:
- your wellbeing and safety throughout your surgery
- agreeing a plan with you for your anesthetic
- giving your anesthetic
- planning your pain control with you
- managing any transfusions you may need
- your immediate care following anesthesia
You will be treated by an anesthesia clinician who will work closely with your surgeon. However, you can ask to talk to the attending anesthesiologist or CRNA if you want to – there is always one available to help if needed.
Your anesthesia professional will work closely with your surgeon and other operating room staff. Your anesthesia professionals may work with a technician who prepares and maintains equipment, help them and take part in your care. The circulating nurse in the operating room will be involved in your care throughout the operation, and may assist the anesthesia professional as well. Trained staff in the recovery room will care for you after your surgery until you are ready to go home or be admitted to the hospital.
In some hospitals, you may be cared for by an anesthesia resident or a student nurse anesthetist. Medical students and other healthcare staff in training can only take part in your care with your permission. If they do, they are closely supervised.
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