I am having surgery June 20 and i scared of being put to sleep? Any words of encouragement?

Answer 1

Hi

Im having surgery soon too. Im not too thrilled about it either. I did have surgery a few years ago once before, and I was 'put to sleep'

Here's how it went for me: You'll go in get changed into a johnnie, and wait in the prep-op area, they will get your IV started, and give you some IV fluids including electrolytes, and perhaps even a mild sedative. You can have a friend, husband or loved one with you at this time.

Nurses will come and check on you from time to time. Then the doctor will come in and they will administer a medication that will 'make you sleep'. It's a weird disconcerting feeling, but not unpleasant. You just sort of cant keep your eyes open. My sister says I said some weird thing just while I went under. But I think the Doctors and nurses pretty much ignore the goofy stuff people say.

Then all I remember is waking up in the recovery room with a kind nurse looking after me. I felt a little afraid, and she gave me an oxygen mask, and she just reassured me that the surgery went great, and I was well, and Id be in a room back with my loved ones soon. I sort of dozed off an on for a while.

I did feel a bit weird about 'going to sleep' I felt like there would be a sense of vulnerability. Like they could do anything to me while I slept. Knowing that they would be seeing me undressed while I was helpless, and trusting them to take good care of me. All in all it was alright. Not something, Id do for fun, but it was alright.

I hope this helps..

Answer 2

When you look at how many people are put under every year, you see that it's one of the safest procedures around. The rate of complications is *extremely* low, and usually not serious.

As a nurse I have never had a patient who had any problems from the anesthesia. I have nursey friends who have seen them, but never a truly serious case.

I myself have been put under five times over the past 25 years, and it keeps getting easier every time. The modern meds that you will get allow you to regain full consciousness in just a few minutes after you wake up. Being fuzzy headed for hours afterward is a thing of the past.

As a really fat man and a diabetic, I have a much higher risk for complications than most people, and I will not hesitate to be put under if the need ever arises again...
Best wishes,
Ed, RN

Answer 3

Oh boy, do I ever know how you feel. I've had so many surgeries, and every time I dreaded and feared the anesthetia. One hint I can tell you is to tell your doctor exactly how you feel, then as soon as possible when you're getting prepped, they will give you a relaxer, and all your fear will go away, and you will be perfectly relaxed. Remember this also, you will get to speak to the anethsesiologist prior to surgery, and he will answer all your question, and probable greatly relieve your fears too. I always remember this as one told me-there is never a time in your life, that you'll be as closely monitered, with every modern technology at your fingertips, as when you are having surgery. You are safer there, than at home in your bed! That always gave me great comfort! So relax, you will be fine-it's is just not having control that's scary. I wish you a quick and easy recovery, and all the best of luck!

Answer 4

I have a badly broken leg. A month ago I had to have a serious 3 hour long surgery. I was also worried about being put to sleep. But it was so EASY. It was actually kind of cool. Also, many hospitals give you what they call "happy juice". This goes into your IV so you are no longer stressed right before the surgery. I had another surgery two days ago, and it was also very easy even though it was another serious surgery.

Good luck and don't worry!!

Answer 5

I know exactly how you feel. I have the same anxiety. For me, it's not so much a question of the competency of the medical professionals who are providing my care. It's got more to do with loss of control. I'm used to always being in complete control of myself, and this would be a time when I'd have to hand that control over to other people, even strangers...strangers wearing masks!!! If your surgery isn't elective, then I think you just have to trust in the competency of the people who'll be taking care of you. It might help you feel better to call the surgeon's office and make an appointment with his PA. That person can answer all your questions about everything that'll happen, and they may be able to calm some of your fears. Good luck with your surgery.

Answer 6

One of the most closely supervised procedures in surgery is anesthesia. Anesthesiologists are highly trained specialists, who will only look after your comfort and well being. They have a lot of electrical aides to help preform their task safely, heart monitors, BP monitors and Oxygen level monitors. They will draw blood before your procedure to see which type of anesthetic works best with you and ensure you are well taken care of.
So, not much to worry there. Try to remain calm and let the doctors do what they are trained to do. You being too nervous won't help them much, so relax, and when you open your eyes again everything will be over.

Answer 7

My mom works in the recovery room after surgery and she see people of all ages to absolutly fine. What kind of surgery are you having.

Answer 8

What are you scared of?

Look at it this way, being asleep during the surgery isn't all that bad if you consider the alternative.

Answer 9

Good luck and have a good recovery!

There is someone going to be in there specifically to monitor your vital signs throughout the surgery.

Answer 10

I had my fist surgery 3 yrs ago and I was scared to death! It went way better than I thought it would. It's worse in your head than it will be when you get there! Best wishes!