Woman
Questions and Answers

THE ANAESTHETIC
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Question
What do I need to know about anaesthetic?

Answer

 
The anaesthetic most people are given is called "intravenous sedation." With this type of anaesthetic you will be given an injection of medications which make you fall into a short light sleep, feel no pain and wake after the operation. It is similar to a general anaesthetic only a little lighter, so it is safer and your recovery time is shorter. The medications will remain in your body for up to 24 hours even when you feel awake after the operation and because of this you must not drive for 24 hours after your procedure. It is common for girls to experience ‘amnesia’( loss of memory) as the medications are waring off and for this reason we ask you to always be escorted and driven home, to make sure you get there safely! We also provide general anaesthetic if required.

Before your appointment you will be instructed about eating and drinking.
Here are the rules,
  • No food, lollies, chewing gum, milk or drinks such as cordial, fruit juice or lemonade for 6 hours before your appointment time.
  • Water alone can be drunk in small amounts during this 6 hour period but you must stop drinking water 2 hours before your appointment. For the two hours before your appointment time – no more water!
Why you might ask? Well the reason for this is to reduce the risk of vomiting while your are under anaesthetic. Imagine if you had a stomach full of chocolate milk and it ended up in your airways! Lollies and chewing gum might seem like small items however they cause the stomach to produce lots of gastric acid and we also do not want this to end up in your lungs. Plain water however, drunk in small volumes up to 2 hours before the operation has been found to be of benefit in preventing nausea and dehydration and is considered safe so long as you stop two hours before your appointment time.
  • If you are confused ring our receptionist and she will give you clear instructions.
  • Here is an example for you:
    • Your appointment time is 12.30
    • Breakfast ok before 06.30.
    • After this only water until 10.30
    • Nothing to pass your lips after 10.30.
  • Write yourself a plan on the day before your procedure so you don’t forget when you wake up.