Surgery During The Holidays: Tips For Success (NAPSA)—Although the holi- day season is not a time when people are known to practice moderation, those who must undergo surgery at this time should watch how they indulge for more than just the obvious health reasons. According to the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA), for those undergoing surgery before or after the holidays, it is extremely important to be honest with the nurse anesthetist during the pre-operative interview in order to help ensure a trouble-free anesthesia experience. The AANAoffers the following tips to those undergoing surgery near the holiday season: * If surgery is planned, it is best to practice moderation in food and drink. Follow advice on food and liquid consumption prior to surgery. * Patients should be prepared to reveal pertinent facts during their pre-operative conference with their anesthesia provider, if not sooner. Even confidential or personal information should be discussed. For example, “closet” alcoholies or users of recreational drugs who conceal this information may be putting their lives in jeopardy. Anesthesia providers can take steps to lessen the patient’s risk, such as reducing the dose of anesthetic or altering the type of anesthetic administered. * Senior citizens should be especially vigilant in sharing information. Many seniors take medications for various agerelated health problems and may The more information a surgery patient reveals to their anesthesia provider the safer the anesthesia experience will be. forget to mention a particular medication simply due to volume. * Make a list and check it twice. If you are traveling, carry a list of all prescription and overthe-counter medications, including herbal products, you are taking. Also list any allergies you have. This is critical information in emergencysituations. Whether a patient is undergoing a planned or emergency surgery, the more information a patient, family memberor friend can provide to the nurse anesthetist, the safer the anesthesia experience will be. The AANArepresents more than 30,000 Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists nationwide who administer two-thirds of all anesthetics given to patients each year in the United States. To learn more about anesthesia care visit www.anesthesiapatient safety.com.
