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Patient Information

The following is meant to provide general information about anesthesia for your upcoming procedure.  Please reach out to your surgeon for any specific questions prior to your procedure.

  • Pre-admission Testing: Pre-admission testing may be ordered by your surgeon or the anesthesia team several weeks before your procedure to allow for test results to come in before the day of your procedure. Testing may include a series of questions and tests to reduce the risk of allergic reactions, drug interactions, or physical complications before, during, and after the surgical and diagnostic procedures. Other tests, such as blood tests, chest x-rays, and EKG, may also be conducted, as requested by the surgeon or the anesthesia team

  • Ride Home: Plan for a responsible adult to drive you home after your procedure. Let your surgeon or anesthesia provider know before the day of your procedure if this is not possible.

  • Fasting: Typically, you will be asked to not eat anything after midnight. Depending on the timing and type of procedure however, you may be given specific instructions on food and liquid consumption. Be sure to clarify with your surgeon and anesthesia team what you are allowed to eat and drink before surgery to avoid a cancellation the day of.

  • Medications: Your medications may have to be adjusted before your surgery. Follow your surgeon’s directions for taking medicine prior to your procedure. 

  • Alcohol, Smoking and Other Drug Use: 24 hours before your procedure, do not drink any alcohol or use drugs. Do not smoke or vape. It is important to follow any instructions you have received for the night before your surgical or diagnostic procedure to ensure your safety and avoid any delay or cancellation of surgery

  • You will need to leave the healthcare facility accompanied by a responsible adult.

  • Remain at home and rest at least for the day of surgery and arrange for someone​​ to care for your small children for the day.

    • Follow your surgeons instructions for restrictions after surgery.

  • Take liquids first and slowly progress to a light meal. 

  • Don’t drive a car or operate heavy equipment for at least 24 hours.

  • Don’t make any important decisions or sign any legal documents for 24 hours.

  • Don’t take any medications unless prescribed by or discussed with your physician.

  • Don’t drink alcohol for at least 24 hours.

 

 

Call MJM Anesthesia or the facility where you were treated if you have any questions.  We can be reached during normal business hours at (202)964-1160 and a staff member can contact an anesthesia provider if you have questions concerning your anesthesia care. 

If you are having an emergency, call 911

  • Fasting: Do not chew any kind of gum, candy, or mints.  You may brush your teeth (we actually appreciate it :) but please don't swallow any water except for a small sip with your approved medications.  Typically, you will be asked to not eat anything after midnight. However, in some instances you may be given specific instructions on food and liquids you may be able to eat or drink closer to the procedure time.

  • Medications: Follow your surgeon’s instructions on which medications to take on the day of your procedure, or which ones to stop taking and when.  Inhalers and CPAP: If you use any inhalers or a CPAP machine, be sure to bring them with you the day of your procedure.

  • Alcohol, Smoking and Other Drug Use: Do not drink any alcohol or use drugs for 24 hours before your procedure. Do not smoke or vape.

  • Lists to know or bring with you:

    • Allergies to food, latex, the environment, or medications

    • Medications taken daily, the dose and how often it is taken. This includes prescriptions, supplements, or other over the counter medications 

    • Previous surgeries or procedures ; Information about your pacemaker if you have one

    • General health history

  • Pre-anesthesia interview: this is a time to share your health history and questions with the anesthesia provider and talk about any possible risks to you before you receive anesthesia. It is important for your safety that you are honest, and provide complete and accurate information so you and the anesthesia provider can develop the anesthesia care plan that is the safest and most effective for you. During the interview, the following information is discussed

    • Health history

    • Allergies to foods, latex, the environment, or medications

    • Prescriptions, over the counter medications, supplements, medical marijuana, and medication-assisted treatment for substance use disorder

    • Any prior reactions to anesthesia

    • Information about your pacemaker, internal cardiac defibrillator (ICD), insulin or pain pump

    • An exam of your mouth, teeth, tongue, throat, heart, and lungs

    • Review of lab or other ordered tests

For specific questions about your upcoming procedure, please contact your surgeon directly.

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