Can I Complete Anesthesia Consultation Alone Before Surgery? - Anesthesiology

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Anesthesia consultation


I am scheduled to undergo an endometrial polyp removal surgery, and I have an appointment for anesthesia consultation next week.
However, I do not have any relatives to accompany me.
Will this prevent me from completing the anesthesia consultation process? Is there any way for me to complete this consultation on my own? Thank you for your guidance, doctor!

Miss Lin, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/26

Dr. Huang Baiqing reply Anesthesiology


Adults without specific mental illnesses can independently decide and sign the anesthesia consent form without any issues.
Typically, physicians in Taiwan prefer to have a family member accompany the patient to hear the medical explanations and discussions.
This is because if the patient has more severe conditions (such as pulmonary diseases, heart diseases, or is on dialysis), or if the surgery involves a longer anesthesia duration, the anesthesia risks are relatively higher.
Having a family member present can alleviate the psychological pressure on the patient and also help the primary caregiver understand the associated risks, thereby reducing the gap in understanding between the medical team and the patient.
In your case, I believe that the vast majority of anesthesiologists would not insist on having a family member present to proceed with the pre-anesthesia assessment.

Reply Date: 2022/03/26

More Info


Yes, you can complete the anesthesia consultation alone before your surgery. In most cases, adults without significant mental health issues have the legal capacity to make their own medical decisions and sign consent forms, including the anesthesia consent. While it is common practice for healthcare providers to encourage patients to bring a family member or friend to the consultation, especially if the patient has underlying health conditions or is undergoing a major surgery, it is not a strict requirement.

The primary reason for having a family member present is to provide emotional support and to ensure that someone else is also informed about the risks and benefits of the anesthesia and the procedure. This can help alleviate some of the psychological stress that comes with surgery and ensure that there is someone to assist the patient post-operatively. However, if you feel comfortable and confident in your ability to understand the information provided during the consultation, you should be able to proceed without a companion.

To prepare for your anesthesia consultation, consider the following steps:
1. Gather Medical History: Bring a list of your medical history, including any medications you are currently taking, allergies, and previous surgeries or anesthesia experiences. This information is crucial for the anesthesiologist to assess your risk and tailor the anesthesia plan to your needs.

2. Prepare Questions: Write down any questions or concerns you may have regarding the anesthesia process, potential side effects, and what to expect before, during, and after the surgery. This will help ensure that you get all the information you need during the consultation.

3. Be Honest: During the consultation, be open and honest about your health status, any anxiety you may have about the procedure, and any past experiences with anesthesia. This will help the anesthesiologist provide you with the best care possible.

4. Consider Telehealth Options: If you are concerned about attending the consultation alone, check if your healthcare facility offers telehealth options. Some facilities may allow you to have a virtual consultation, where you can discuss your concerns with the anesthesiologist from the comfort of your home.

5. Follow Up: If you have any lingering concerns after the consultation, don’t hesitate to reach out to the anesthesiology department for further clarification or support.

In summary, while having a family member or friend accompany you to the anesthesia consultation can be beneficial, it is not mandatory. You have the right to complete the consultation on your own, provided you are mentally capable of understanding the information presented to you. Make sure to prepare adequately for the meeting, and don't hesitate to ask questions to ensure you feel comfortable and informed about the anesthesia process for your upcoming surgery.

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