Experiences with Anesthesia: A Closer Look at Both Positive and Negative Aspects

Anesthesia is a crucial component of modern surgical procedures, ensuring that patients undergo operations without experiencing pain. However, it is not without its risks and complications. In this article, we will explore personal experiences with anesthesia, both through a detailed account of a medical incident and a general overview of what to expect during a typical anesthesia session.

Personal Anesthesia Experience During a Misleading Colonoscopy

During a routine colonoscopy, an unexpected and alarming incident occurred which highlights the delicate balance between administering the right dosage of anesthesia and ensuring patient safety. The experience began normal enough, but about midway through the procedure, an alarming incident took place: I stopped breathing.

Despite the alarming drop in my blood oxygen levels, it took approximately two minutes for someone to notice and for an alarm to sound. Fearfully, the procedure was immediately halted, and I was quickly extracted from the examination room.

Despite the gravity of the situation, the anesthesiologist did not see fit to document the incident, despite the standard procedure being to report such events. Furthermore, the cost of his services was charged in full, regardless of the procedure's outcome. This leads to questions about the accountability and transparency in medical practices.

Requests for a formal medical review were ultimately ignored. The director of the medical center acknowledged the incident but failed to deliver the promised records. Sadly, it does not end there. When I later shared this information with the head of gastroenterology, it was simply dismissed, with no further follow-up or provision of the requested medical records.

The atmosphere during the preparation for the procedure was described as festive, with rap music playing and staff dancing, creating an unsettling environment. Despite my initial instincts telling me to leave, I decided to stay, believing the professional team would handle the situation with the necessary care. This decision turned out to be a mistake, as my insights on the atmosphere and the incident itself were not heeded.

General Overview of Anesthesia

For those who are unfamiliar with the processes involved in anesthesia, here is a general overview of what to expect:

Preparation

Transportation: Arrange for someone else to drive you home after the procedure, as you will not be able to operate a vehicle due to the effects of anesthesia.

Fasting: Prior to the procedure, you should not eat or drink anything, and it is advisable to limit fluids to water. Some types of anesthesia may require a longer fasting period.

No medications: Avoid taking any non-prescribed medications that may interact with the anesthesia.

Medical history: Inform the doctors if you have any medical conditions or are taking any medications that could affect your anesthesia.

Administration

Typically, anesthesia is administered through a pic line, usually into an arm or hand, to ensure a smooth and controlled flow. The process often begins with the patient counting backwards from 100 (or 10, depending on the doctor) as a distraction technique.

After Effects

Post-anesthesia effects: Like many patients, I experienced queasiness or even vomiting after the procedure. While unpleasant, these symptoms are generally manageable and resolve on their own within a day or two.

Discharge instructions: Healthcare providers will provide detailed discharge instructions to help you recover safely at home.

Follow-up care: It is important to follow any instructions provided by the healthcare team and seek medical attention if any unusual symptoms persist.

Conclusion

Anesthesia is a powerful tool in the medical field, ensuring that patients endure surgeries and procedures with minimal pain and distress. However, it is evident that there are risks and incidents that can occur, as demonstrated in the personal account and accountable practices are crucial to ensure the safety and rights of patients, especially during such critical moments. By understanding the processes involved and remaining vigilant, patients can better prepare for their procedures and advocate for themselves.

Keywords

anesthesia, colonoscopy, medical incidents