The Do's and Don'ts
The medications that you have been given can remain in your body for
up to 24 hours after their administration. You are not completely
"back to your old self" until the anesthetic has been totally
eliminated.
"Don'ts" After Anaesthesia
After receiving anaesthesia during a surgical procedure, you can
play an active role in your recovery by heeding the straightforward
list of do's and don'ts that follows.
Don't drive a car for at least 24 hours. After anaesthesia, your
reactions and judgment may be impaired. Such impairment makes
driving a car dangerous to you and to others. It is especially
important that you don't forget to make arrangements for someone
else to drive you home from the health care facility.
Don't operate complex equipment for at least 24 hours. The same
logic that applies to driving a car similarly applies to the
operation of other equipment. This includes equipment used at home,
such as a lawnmower, as well as that which is used on the job, such
as a forklift.
Don't make any important decisions or sign any legal documents for
the day. The potential for impairment relates not only to physical
activities but to your mental state also. Moreover, the anxiety that
frequently accompanies important decisions is to be avoided. The day
should be spent resting.
Don't take any medications unless prescribed by or discussed with
your physician. Some medications may adversely interact with
anesthetic drugs or chemicals remaining in your body. Included are
prescription drugs, such as sleeping pills or tranquilizers, and
over-the-counter medications, such as aspirin.
Don't drink alcohol for at least 24 hours. Alcohol is also
considered a drug, meaning that an alcoholic drink has the potential
to negatively react with the anesthetic in your system. This
includes hard liquor, beer, and wine.
"Do's" After Anaesthesia
Do leave the healthcare facility accompanied by a responsible adult.
This person will ensure that you travel home safely, as well as
provide immediate care at home. You should continue to have this
adult with you for 24 hours after surgery.
Do remain quietly at home for the day and rest. You need rest both
because you have received anaesthesia and because you have undergone
a surgical procedure -- even one that is considered minor. If, after
a day, you still do not feel recovered, you may want to continue
your rest for an additional day or two. Discuss your planned return
to work with your physician.
Do arrange for someone to care for your small children for the day.
Even if given instructions to play peacefully and not overtax you,
children sometimes forget such directions or have trouble staying
quiet for an entire day. The most predictable course of action is to
leave small children and babies in the care of another responsible
individual.
Do take liquids first and slowly progress to a light meal. Heavy
foods can be difficult for your system to digest, thereby increasing
the chance for discomfort. For your nourishment, start by taking
liquids, then eat light foods, such as broth or soup, crackers or
toast, plain rice, Jell-O, and yogurt.
Do call the facility where you were treated or our rooms if you have
any questions. These professionals are interested in your welfare
and want your care to go as planned. If you have questions, or feel
your recovery is not progressing to your satisfaction, call them.
