Word parts
What it means
A state of no feeling, usually caused on purpose with an anesthetican-us-THET-ikA drug that causes loss of feeling, with or without loss of consciousness.an- withoutesthesi/o feeling, sensation-ic relating toFull entry drug. General anesthesia makes the client unconscious and unable to feel pain, and the anesthesia provider manages breathing. Regional anesthesia, such as a spinal or epidural anesthesiaep-ih-DOOR-ul an-us-THEE-zhuhPain relief or numbness from an anesthetic drug given through a thin catheter into the space just outside the covering of the spinal cord.epi- upon, overdur/o dura (the tough covering of the spinal cord)-al relating toFull entry , numbs a large area; local anesthesia numbs a small spot. Moderate (conscious) sedation is lighter: the client is drowsy but can still respond.
For the nurse
Before surgery, check NPO status, allergies, consent and past reactions to anesthesia, including family history of malignant hyperthermia. After anesthesia, watch the airway, breathing, oxygen saturation, level of consciousness, temperature, and return of feeling and movement.
At a glance
| Spanish | anestesia |
|---|---|
| Also written | anaesthesia |
Related terms
postoperative
Describing the time after surgery, from the end of the operation until recovery.
anesthetic
A drug that causes loss of feeling, with or without loss of consciousness.
epidural anesthesia
Pain relief or numbness from an anesthetic drug given through a thin catheter into the space just outside the covering of the spinal cord.