Attention to hunger and water intake in anaesthesia

In the process of anaesthesia, hunger and water intake of patients is a very important issue. A reasonable diet and water intake not only ensures the patient ‘ s safety during surgery, but also facilitates post-operative recovery. This paper will explore in depth the concerns about hunger and water intake in anaesthesia.

The pre-aesthesia diet directly affects the safety of the patient. In general, the following dietary guidelines are followed before the overall anaesthesia: 1. Time of fasting: In order to avoid anaesthesia, it is usually recommended that the patient fast for at least six hours before anaesthesia. For solid foods, especially those with high fats and proteins, the period of fasting may need to be extended to eight hours. In the case of liquids (e.g. water, soup, juice, etc.), it is generally recommended that an appropriate amount of water be available two hours before the operation. 2. Consideration of special groups: In the case of children, older persons or patients with special health conditions, doctors may adjust the duration of the fast to the specific circumstances. In these cases, the doctor assesses the risk of the patient and determines the appropriate length of the fast. Pre-operative counselling: Patients should communicate with doctors on their own initiative prior to the operation, understand their dietary and water intake requirements and prepare for the operation.

Water management in anaesthesia is also essential during anaesthesia. Anaesthetists adjust the type and speed of the infusion to the specific circumstances of the patient. 1. Ivenial infusion: During the operation, the patient usually replenishes the moisture and electrolyte by means of IVS. This is because, in an anaesthesia, the patient is unable to eat and drink freely. Anesthetists choose the appropriate infusion programme on the basis of the length of the operation, the weight of the patient and the underlying disease. Avoid dehydration and oedema: During anaesthesia, doctors need to closely monitor the liquid balance of the patient to prevent dehydration or oedema. Dehydration may result in reduced blood pressure and impaired kidney function, while edema may affect surgical effects. 3. Complementarity of electrolyte: In some cases, the patient may need to be supplemented by electrolyte, especially if the operation is longer or there is more blood loss. The doctor determines whether additional electrolyte is required on the basis of the patient ‘ s blood test results.

3. The period of recovery from anaesthesia, as well as the dietary and hydrological intake of the patient, requires equal attention. 1. Gradual recovery of diet: After surgery, the patient usually needs to gradually transition from a liquid to a general diet. Fluent foods such as water, fresh soup and juice can be selected at an early stage, and soft and solid foods can then be introduced gradually. 2. Focus on individual responses: The digestive system of a post-operative patient may be somewhat inhibited, and therefore the type and quantity of food should be adjusted to the patient ‘ s response when retrofitting the diet. Patients who feel sick, vomit, etc. should be informed in a timely manner. 3. Sufficient water: After the operation, the patient needs sufficient water to assist in recovery. It is generally recommended that the patient gradually increase the intake of water after the operation and maintain a balanced body. 4. Monitoring of complications: Possible post-operative complications, such as nausea, vomiting, may affect the diet and water intake of patients. In such cases, medical personnel must intervene in a timely manner and take appropriate measures to deal with them.

The management of hunger and water intake in anaesthesia is an important link in ensuring patient safety and post-operative recovery. The patient shall be guided by a doctor, and he/she shall make reasonable arrangements for pre-operative fasting and water intake, during which he/she shall maintain a water balance by means of infusion, and gradually restore his/her diet after the operation. Scientificly sound management can effectively reduce the risk of anaesthesia and promote the recovery of patients. Patients should be actively informed prior to the operation and maintain good communication with the medical staff to ensure a smooth operation and a good post-operative recovery.