Patient Guide to Anesthesia & Surgery
Overview
The Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation (APSF) Patient Guide to Anesthesia is a comprehensive resource designed to educate and empower patients by helping them understand what to expect before, during, and after receiving anesthesia. This guide emphasizes safety, preparation, and informed decision-making, and is part of APSF’s broader mission to improve the safety of patients undergoing anesthesia care. The goal is to provide clear, accessible information about anesthesia to reduce fear, answer common questions, and promote conversations between patients and their anesthesia providers.
Types of Anesthesia
General Anesthesia: A drug-induced loss of consciousness where the patient cannot be aroused, even with painful stimulation. Requires ventilatory and airway support.
Regional Anesthesia: Medication is delivered near the spinal cord or peripheral nerves (e.g., epidurals). Consciousness is maintained but movement and pain perception are blocked.
Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC): A qualified provider monitors the patient, with potential progression to general or regional anesthesia if needed.
Deep Sedation/Analgesia: Patient is not easily aroused and may need airway support. Spontaneous ventilation may be inadequate.
Moderate Sedation (“Conscious Sedation”): The patient responds to verbal commands. Airway and cardiovascular functions are maintained.
Minimal Sedation: Normal response to verbal commands; functions are unaffected.
Local or Topical Anesthesia: Pain-blocking drugs applied to a specific body area; not considered anesthesia under federal guidelines.
Topics Covered in the Guide
The guide is structured into several patient-friendly sections, including:
Anesthesia, Surgery, and Pain Management FAQs
Types of Anesthesia
General, regional, local, and monitored anesthesia care.
When and why each is used.
Why This Matters
Anesthesia is safer than ever, but patient awareness and preparation play a critical role in reducing complications and ensuring optimal outcomes. This guide reflects best practices in patient education and safety standards recommended by experts in the field.
About APSF
The Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation is a nonprofit organization that works to advance the highest standards of anesthesia safety. APSF promotes research, education, and initiatives aimed at preventing harm in patients receiving anesthesia care.