Common problems and solutions after anesthesia
Anesthesia is an integral part of a surgical or medical procedure that helps patients undergo treatment without pain or perception. However, some common problems after anesthesia need special attention. The following are common problems and solutions after anesthesia:
1. Postoperative pain
Postoperative pain is one of the most common symptoms of anesthesia and may be due to the surgery itself, tissue trauma, or loss of anesthetic effects.
Solution:
Medication management: Use appropriate analgesic medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or opioids. The dosage is adjusted according to the patient’s pain level and drug response. Non-drug intervention: apply hot compress, cold compress or local massage to relieve pain. Encourage the patient to adopt a comfortable position to help reduce pain. 2. Nausea and vomiting
Problem: Anesthetic drugs, particularly certain general anesthetic drugs, may cause postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV).
Solution:
Medication control: Use anti-nausea medications (e.g., desflurane, meclizine hydrochloride) to prevent or treat nausea and vomiting. Dietary adjustment: In the early postoperative period, the diet should be gradually resumed. At the beginning, light and digestible food should be chosen, and greasy or stimulating food should be avoided. 3. Confusion or confusion
Problem: Postoperatively, patients may experience a brief period of confusion or confusion that affects their level of consciousness and cognitive ability.
Solution:
Observation and evaluation: closely monitor the patient’s level of consciousness and cognitive function to ensure that they return to normal. Usually, this state is temporary and will gradually improve with the metabolism and clearance of anesthetic drugs. Avoid distractions: Provide a quiet and comfortable environment for the patient to regain consciousness. If necessary, consult with your doctor to assess whether you need to adjust your anesthetic medication or have further tests. 4. Expiratory dyspnoea.
Anesthetic drugs may cause postoperative expiratory dyspnoea or respiratory depression, especially in certain high-risk patients.
Solution:
Respiratory monitoring: The patient’s respiratory rate and depth should be closely monitored postoperatively. For patients with expiratory dyspnoea, additional oxygen therapy or assisted breathing may be required. Medication Adjustments: If needed, adjust or discontinue medications that may cause respiratory depression. Consult your doctor for appropriate adjustments and management. 5. Postoperative hemorrhage or hematoma
Problem: Bleeding or hematomas may occur in the surgical area, particularly with improper postoperative activities or care.
Solution:
Wound Examination: Periodically examine the surgical wound to note abnormal bleeding or hematoma formation. Keep the wound clean and follow the doctor’s instructions. Activity restrictions: Follow postoperative activity restrictions and avoid strenuous exercise or squeezing the wound to reduce the risk of bleeding. If necessary, apply ice to reduce the hematoma. 6. Postoperative infection
The problem: After surgery, especially open surgery, there is an increased risk of wound infection.
Solution:
Wound care: Keep the wound clean and dry, change the dressing according to the doctor’s instructions, and observe the wound for signs of infection such as redness, fever or secretion. Antibiotic use: If the doctor recommends the use of antibiotics, take them on time, follow the course of medication, and do not stop taking them at will. 7. Urinary retention
Problem: Urinary retention may occur after anesthesia, especially with general or epidural anesthesia, and may present as difficulty urinating.
Solution:
Urination monitoring: Urine volume and urination were monitored after operation. Encourage the patient to urinate and use a catheter to assist urination if necessary. Medication intervention: If necessary, medication may be used to assist urination or anesthetic medication may be adjusted to reduce the effect on the urinary tract. Conclusion After
anesthesia, although most of the problems are temporary, they also need to be paid enough attention. Through effective medication management, appropriate non-pharmacological interventions, close monitoring and rational care, common problems can be effectively solved and patient recovery can be promoted. Communication between patients and medical staff is also key to solving problems and ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care and support after surgery.
