Administration of General Anesthesia - Postoperative Visit

A postoperative evaluation of the patient should be performed by the anesthetist within 48 hours of surgery and documented in the patient's medical record. The visit should include a review of the medical record, examination of the patient, and discussion of the patient's perioperative experience. Specific complications such as nausea, sore throat, dental injury, nerve injury, ocular injury, altered pulmonary function, or change in mental status should be sought. Questions to elicit evidence of awareness during the general anesthetic (Table 15.3) should be asked. Responses, along with an evaluation and plan if needed, should be recorded in the patient's chart. Complications that require further therapy or consultations should be actively managed, and the patient's course should be followed until these issues are resolved.

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