General anesthesia

General anesthesia uses medicines that make you unconscious. It affects your whole body.

When it's used, you will be unaware. You won't feel pain during the procedure. It also causes you to forget things from right before, during, and right after the procedure.

It also affects many of your body's normal functions, such as those that control breathing. So you will be watched closely. Your body's functions will get support to keep you safe.

General anesthesia medicine is often started through a needle in a vein (intravenous, or I.V.). It may also be inhaled.

An anesthesia specialist will adjust your medicines as needed. They will also closely watch your heartbeat, breathing, blood pressure, and other vital functions. A soft tube or other device in the back of your throat is usually used to give you an inhaled anesthetic and oxygen. It also helps to control and assist your breathing.

You will get a list of instructions to help you prepare. They will cover things like when your child needs to stop eating, drinking, or breastfeeding. If your child has a CPAP machine for sleep apnea, make sure they use it.

Your child's anesthesia specialist will tell you what to expect. They'll cover what happens when you get to the hospital, during the procedure, and after. And they will talk with you about the risks and benefits of anesthesia. If you have questions, be sure to ask.

Some children may be nervous before they have anesthesia or a procedure. It can help to calmly explain to your child what they can expect at the hospital. And let them pick out things to bring to the hospital that can help comfort them.

If your child still seems nervous, ask your doctor about ways to help your child relax. These may include relaxation exercises or medicine.

Activity

• Don't do anything that requires attention to detail until you recover. This includes going to work or school, making important decisions, and signing any legal documents. It takes time for the medicine effects to completely wear off.
• For at least 24 hours, do not drive or operate any machinery.
• After the procedure, make sure to rest. Some people will feel drowsy or dizzy for up to a few hours after waking up.
• Take your time, and move slowly. Sudden changes in position may cause nausea.
• If you have sleep apnea and you have a CPAP machine, be sure to use it.

Diet

• Don't drink alcohol for 24 hours.
• You can eat your normal diet, unless your doctor gives you other instructions. If your stomach is upset, try clear liquids and bland, low-fat foods. For example, you can eat plain toast or rice.
• Drink plenty of fluids (unless your doctor tells you not to).