Speak Up: Navigating Anesthesia and Sedation Safely

Abstract

Date published: June 10, 2014 Target Group: General Audience, Patients, Health providers. Summary of the Article Anesthesia and sedation are common procedures in the health care industry. The Joint Commission has played a role in raising awareness of anesthesia and sedation to improve the health care system. It ensures that health care organizations provide quality services based on the recommended professional practices. According to (Schmidt), Nearly 40 million anesthetics are administered annually in the United States; hence, there is a need to raise awareness of the risks associated with anesthesia and sedation. This has prompted the Joint Commission in collaboration with other health organizations such as the American Association of Nurses and Anesthetists and the American Society of Anesthesiologists to bring to limelight the infographics on anesthesia and sedation. The infographics included in the article define anesthesia and Information to the general audience and the health care practitioners and professionals. It also addresses minor challenges such as the side effects. The speak-up program insists on seeing an anesthesia professional to give clarity on the after-surgery steps. The article also gives before-surgery infographics on personal arrangements before surgery and the dos and don’ts before and after surgery. Communication Effective communication between the patient and health professional is an incentive for better service provision. This article stipulates the incidences to talk with the doctor or anesthesia professional. It is generally about speaking up and inquiring about incidences. According to (Schmidt) before surgery, it is necessary to ask professionals about the benefits and risks of anesthesia and ask a friend or family member to advocate. Communication on health history, allergies to medicines and foods, medical problems, previous surgeries, hospital admissions, the family history on anesthesia, all drugs you are taking, including prescriptions, supplements, herbs, and over-the-counter drugs (Schmidt). The Joint Commission stipulates that patients should enhance their safety by speaking up when faced with controversy or a challenge. Patients are required to seek advice from health facilities after surgery. Personal Reflection Anesthesia and sedation are controversial, and many people have different myths and stories revolving around the process. I have heard people claim that surgical procedures are life-threatening and sometimes make patients shy off from seeking mediation when surgical procedures are mentioned. I wanted to gain clarity about the procedure, how it is done, and information surrounding it. Evaluation of the brochure. The article proved to be articulate and efficient. The information provided is eye-opening and educative. The anesthesia and sedation concept has always been neglected and assumed, making patients timid about the procedure. There is a need for patient education on the procedure's efficiency, the side effects, procedures to take before and after surgery, the dos and don’ts, the importance of communication, and what anesthesia and sedation are generally. This article is clear and precise, with well-documented ideologies that vividly describe the concept of anesthesia and sedation. It has used images and language that can easily be understood. It also offers a...