4 Important Things to Know Before Undergoing Anesthesia

06 May 2025 2 min read

Has been reviewed and approved by dr. Dini Irawan, Sp.An

Have you ever wondered how a patient can undergo major surgery without feeling pain? The answer lies in a medical procedure called anesthesia. Starting from small to large operations, anesthesia plays an important role in ensuring patient safety and comfort when undergoing surgery without feeling pain. 

Anesthesia, a medical procedure that aims to relieve pain during surgery, has become an inseparable part of the world of modern medicine. Even though it sounds simple, anesthesia involves a complex process and requires careful preparation, both from the medical team and the patient. As a patient, you have an important role in the success of the anesthesia procedure. 

So, what do you need to know before undergoing anesthesia? Let's look at the complete review in this article.

Tell your health history honestly

One of the most important things that must be done before undergoing anesthesia is to provide the doctor with accurate and complete information about one's own health history, such as chronic diseases, allergies, and living habits. This will really help the medical team in planning a safe and effective procedure. 

The information you provide will really help the doctor in choosing the most appropriate and safe type of anesthesia according to your body condition, as well as anticipating possible complications that may occur.

Do not take medication or herbal supplements

Before undergoing surgery, it is very important to stop taking medications and herbal supplements. Several types of medicines and herbal supplements, whether over-the-counter medicines, vitamins or herbal medicines, all types of supplements, can interact with anesthetic drugs and increase the risk of complications. Therefore, it is very important to consult a doctor about what medications should be stopped temporarily before undergoing surgery.

Some examples of drugs to be wary of include:

  • Blood thinners: Aspirin, warfarin.

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Ibuprofen, naproxen.

  • Herbal supplements: Ginseng, ginkgo biloba, St. John's wort.

Follow All Directions from the Medical Team

Following all directions from the medical team before and during surgery is an important step to ensure the safety and success of the procedure. The medical team will provide various directions that need to be followed before undergoing surgery. These instructions, such as fasting before surgery, keeping the body clean, or carrying out laboratory tests, are designed to prepare the body in the best condition for surgery. 

Failure to comply with these directions can increase the risk of complications and slow down the recovery process. Therefore, by following all directions, you help the medical team work effectively and efficiently in providing the best care for you

Understanding the Risks and Benefits of Anesthesia

Every medical procedure, including anesthesia, has its own risks and benefits. Before deciding to undergo surgery, it is important for you to understand well the risks and benefits of the anesthesia that will be performed.

Anesthesia, although generally safe, still has the potential for side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, or allergic reactions. On the other hand, anesthesia also provides huge benefits, namely eliminating pain during surgery and helping the recovery process. By knowing the risks and benefits, you can decide whether anesthesia is the right choice for you and feel more at ease before undergoing the procedure.

Anesthesia is an important part of the surgical procedure. Knowing the important things before undergoing anesthesia can help ensure the safety and success of the operation. Don't hesitate to ask the doctor if there is anything that you don't understand.

Still unsure about the anesthesia procedure? Don't worry, Anesthesia Specialist Of Premier Jatinegara Hospital team ready to help. With complete facilities and support from an experienced medical team, your anesthesia procedure will run safely and comfortably.

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