Guardian Anesthesia Services —
Patient Information
For many, the prospect of undergoing anesthesia causes as much anxiety as the surgery itself. Alleviating that anxiety by providing the safest and most comfortable anesthesia care possible is our focus. Guardian Anesthesia Services is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at Parker Adventist Hospital to ensure your stay is as safe as possible.
Guardian Anesthesia Services —
Anesthesia Patient FAQ
The following are some common questions asked about anesthesia:
How long do I need to be without food or drink prior to my scheduled surgery?
For Adults: 8 hours for all food and 2 hours for plain water
For Children:
- 2 hours for clear liquids (such as water, fruit juices with no pulp)
- 4 hours for breast milk
- 6 hours for infant formula
- 8 hours for non-human milk and solid foods
As a general rule you should not take prescription medications the morning of surgery. Exceptions include beta blocker medications (e.g. atenolol, metoprolol) and pain medicines.
Medications that should be held the morning of surgery include: diabetic medications (unless advised differently by your doctor), blood thinners, diuretics (water pills, e.g. Lasix), or ACE inhibitor/ARB blood pressure medications (e.g. lisinopril, enalapril, losartan).
Be sure to tell your anesthesiologist what medications you normally take and which medications you took the morning of surgery
Anesthesia always makes me nauseated. Can this be prevented?
Modern anesthetic techniques minimize the chance of post-operative nausea. In addition, we tailor a plan to each patient to further decrease risk. This plan may include medications given before, during and after surgery.
Will I get to meet my anesthesiologist prior to surgery?
Your anesthesiologist will attempt to call you the night before your surgery to address any questions you may have regarding your upcoming anesthetic. In addition, your anesthesiologist will meet with you again just before your surgery.