10 Things to Tell Your Anesthesiologist Before Surgery
It is important that your anesthesiologist has a complete understanding of your current health when you have surgery and anesthesia. Before you have a scheduled proceedure, you will have an interview with your anesthesiologist to discuss your health and any concerns you may have. These are some important points that you should cover during that interview:
- When you last ate and drank
- The medication you are taking, the dosage and the last time you took the medication. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medications, natural and herbal medications and supplements.
- If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
- If you have had a previous problem with anesthesia
- If your family has a history of malignant hyperthermia
- If you have ever had an episode of anesthesia awareness
- Any medical problems you have, including diabetes, heart disease, lung disease or any other major illness
- If you have a fever
- If you have a cold
- If you have an infection
More Important Surgery Information: All About Anesthesia
Sources Questions You Should Ask. The American Association for Nurse Anesthetists. 2008.
