During an anesthesia consultation, the anesthesiologist will review the patient's medical history, perform a physical examination, and discuss the patient's concerns and expectations for the procedure.
The anesthesiologist will also explain the different types of anesthesia available and the risks and benefits associated with each one.
Moreover, the anesthesiologist will discuss the patient's current medications and any drug allergies they may have. Some medicines and allergies can affect the administration of anesthesia, so it's essential to identify these early on.
Finally, the anesthesiologist may perform additional tests, such as blood tests or electrocardiograms, to assess the patient's overall health and identify potential risks.
An anesthesia consultation allows patients to ask questions and address concerns about the procedure. Some questions that patients may want to ask during an anesthesia consultation include:
To prepare for an anesthesia consultation, patients should gather all relevant medical information, including their and their family's medical history, current medications, and drug allergies. In addition, preparing a list of questions and concerns they want to discuss with the anesthesiologist can help them feel safer.
It's also essential to follow specific instructions the surgical team provides, such as fasting or stopping medications before the procedure. Failure to follow these instructions can increase the risk of complications during the operation.