The word anesthesia means without feeling. The medical field of anesthesia, which is called anesthesiology, is the study of medicines and techniques that cause loss of consciousness and sensation. Concord Hospital anesthesiologists and certified registered nurse anesthetists, who are specially trained in the field of anesthesia, are committed to making each patient's procedure as pleasant and painless as possible. Their most important goal is keeping their patients safe and comfortable before, during, and after surgery.

When you arrive at Concord Hospital on the day of your procedure, a nurse may place an intravenous line, called an IV in your forearm or hand. Medicines may be administered through the intravenous line to help you relax while you are waiting to have surgery. (Children are often given medicine by mouth to help them relax, since they may not like having an IV placed while they are awake.) You are taken to the operating room when you and your care team are ready.

There are different types of anesthesia and because all types may affect your entire body, it’s important that your care team is familiar with your medical history and condition. Please provide accurate and complete medical information, doing so helps your care team ensure your safety and provide the highest quality of care.

You may eat and drink as you normally would until midnight the day before your procedure, unless instructed otherwise by your surgeon. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight on the day of your procedure, unless instructed otherwise by your anesthesia specialist. It is very important that you have an empty stomach prior to your procedure because even the most minimal food or drink may risk your safety during anesthesia. If you take medicines in the morning you will be informed about which ones you should continue, and which you should stop.

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