Word parts
What it means
A controlled state like deep sleep from which the client cannot be woken by pain. It is produced by IV drugs (such as propofol) and inhaled gases, given by an anesthesia provider. Breathing is often supported with a breathing tube or airway device. Other kinds of anesthesiaan-us-THEE-zhuhLoss of feeling or sensation, often brought on by drugs so that surgery or a procedure can be done without pain.an- withoutesthesi/o feeling, sensation-ia conditionFull entry numb only part of the body (regional, 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 ) or a small area (local).
For the nurse
After general anesthesia, watch the airway and breathing closely, check level of consciousness, keep the client on their side if not fully awake, and watch for nausea and vomiting. Malignant hyperthermia is a rare emergency reaction to some anesthetic drugs.
At a glance
| Spanish | anestesia general |
|---|---|
| Also written | general 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.
anesthesia
Loss of feeling or sensation, often brought on by drugs so that surgery or a procedure can be done without pain.
preoperative
Describing the time before surgery, from the decision to operate until the client goes into the operating room.