How to Prepare for General Anesthesia Before Surgery
Proper preparation is essential before any surgery under general anesthesia to ensure safety and minimize risks.
Dr. Eduardo and the anesthesia team explain the main guidelines for patients.
Pre-Anesthesia Consultation: The First Step
Preparation begins with a pre-anesthesia consultation, usually a week or a few days before surgery.
During this appointment, the anesthesiologist reviews:
- Medical history
- Current medications
- Supplements and vitamins
- Blood and heart tests
- Lung function
The goal is to ensure the patient is stable and safe for anesthesia.
Medications and Supplements
Instructions about continuing or stopping medications depend on the type of drug:
- Blood pressure medications: usually continue, except in major surgeries.
- Anxiolytics and antidepressants: typically continue as normal.
- Hormones and thyroid medications: do not need to be stopped.
- Supplements and vitamins: some may affect blood clotting or blood pressure, so all products must be disclosed to the anesthesiologist.
Each case is evaluated individually to ensure maximum safety during surgery.
Tests and Health Monitoring
The anesthesiologist checks:
- Blood pressure is controlled
- Blood work and heart function are normal
- Lung health is adequate
These measures reduce complications and make the procedure safer.
Conclusion
Following the pre-anesthesia consultation guidelines is crucial for a safe and smooth procedure.
Disclosing all medications, supplements, and health conditions allows the anesthesia team to plan and perform the surgery with maximum safety.
