Pre-Operative Exams: Why They Are Important, and What You Can Do if Anesthesia Used During Surgery Causes Injury

Not many people enjoy the thought of surgery, let alone actually enjoy having to go through yet. Yet, it is often a necessary evil. Knowledge of what to expect before surgery - particularly during the preoperative exam - can significantly reduce stress. A doctor should sit with you to discuss the process and complete a pre-operative assessment. You should also be informed of any potential risks, including those pertaining to the if anesthesia itself.

Surgery is not for everyone. The reasons disqualifying individuals are numerous which is why completion of a preoperative exam is essential. Any doctor should require this to determine that a patient is fit to withstand surgery, especially if anesthesia will be used. The entire process can take up to two hours or longer, depending on medical history and completion of medical tests.

Each procedure is unique. However, some standards of care should be provided for each situation, including:

• Completion of a health questionnaire;
• Blood pressure, pulse, and weight measurements;
• Procure all other necessary vitals such as temperature and oxygen levels;
• Nostril swab for illness;
• Urine sample for some;
• Potential Electrocardiograph (ECG);
• Prescription medication list;
• Certain blood tests;
• X-rays;
• Explanation of risks; and
• Meet with your anesthesiologist.

If you or loved ones have any questions before the operations, this is the perfect time to ask. It is advisable to make a personalized list and ask each person you meet that day. Minimally, you should expect to see a nurse, your physician, and the anesthesiologist.

Although the title is intimidating and carries a significant amount of authority, do not let the job title worry you. This individual generally has over eight years of training for this role after graduating from college. Their job is to monitor your vitals throughout the surgery and to maintain a stable level of consciousness. Additionally, if you have any complications throughout the surgery, your anesthesiologist will work to correct them. To alleviate fears, ask your anesthesiologist about their training. Requirements include:

• Degree from a college or university,
• Completion of medical school,
• Fulfillment of Internship requirements,
• Conclusion of a residency program, and
• Any specialized fellowships.

Anything can happen during surgery, making it a necessity to have an entire healthcare team in the room during the time of your surgery. There are surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and others around, and each has a particular duty to perform. The anesthesiologist’s role is to maintain your vitals, reducing the possibility of lasting adverse effects. Proving medical negligence at the hands of the anesthesiologist can be an arduous task. However, it is not impossible. If you are suffering ill effects due to a recent surgery and have reason to believe that it could have been prevented, contact a Santa Clara, CA medical negligence attorney today by calling Corsiglia, McMahon, & Allard, L.L.P. at (408) 289-1417 to schedule your free initial consultation.

• California's New Anesthesia Law
• AB-2235 Board of Dentistry: pediatric anesthesia: committee