Preparing for a general anaesthetic

You will usually meet with a specialist doctor called an anaesthetist before the surgery. That might be in the few days before your surgery, or it might be in the hour before surgery.

Your anaesthetist will ask you about your health and how you have dealt with anaesthetics in the past. They may also ask about the medicines you take, whether you have allergies and whether or not you smoke.

You should provide any medical information you may have from a previous anaesthetist.

Your anaesthetist may explain the surgery to you, along with what could possibly go wrong. They may ask you to sign a form, known as a consent form, which says you agree to the surgery and understand everything about it. If so, this is the time to ask all the questions you may have been wondering about.

Your anaesthetist may also arrange tests to prepare you for surgery.

They may advise you:

• what medicines you should and should not take before and on the day of surgery
• what you can eat and drink before surgery

You should discuss any questions or concerns with your doctor or anaesthetist.

During surgery

The general anaesthetic will usually be injected into a vein, usually on the back of your hand, through a thin plastic tube called a cannula. Alternatively, it may be given as a gas that you inhale through a mask.

During surgery, the anaesthetist will monitor your level of consciousness, your temperature, your breathing and your blood pressure. The amount of anaesthetic you have can be adjusted if necessary.

After surgery

When you wake from the anaesthetic, you will feel sleepy. You might feel nauseous. You will probably be in an area known as the recovery room. A nurse will monitor you. You may need medications to reduce nausea or pain.

If you are staying in hospital, you will be transferred back to your own bed once you are fully awake.

If you are going home after day surgery, you will wait until you are fully conscious and alert. You should not drive home after an anaesthetic. It is best to arrange for someone to pick you up or help you get home. It is best if you are with someone for the next 24 hours after surgery so they can keep an eye on you.