Anesthesia Recuperation
Though not harmful, the state of unconsciousness induced by anesthesia can cause disorientation upon waking up. After surgery, our patients are taken to the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), where they are treated by registered nurses specially trained in anesthesiology care. This is a comfortable and safe environment designed to help patients recover from anesthesia quickly. The exact amount of time spent here varies from patient to patient.
Recovering from Anesthesia
Several things you do on a day-to-day basis can be difficult after anesthesia exposure, which often scares patients who have just undergone surgery, believing something must have gone wrong. Rest assured that a period of feebleness is normal, and the staff at the PACU will help you get back to normal.
You may need help with the following during anesthesia recovery:
- Eating and drinking
- Taking deep breaths
- Using the bathroom
- Sleeping
- Walking
- Maintaining balance
If you have problems with sleep apnea (difficulty breathing while sleeping) a longer stay in the PACU may be required.