General Anesthesia: The Patient Experience from Start to Finish
- Jen Overton
- Jan 13
- 9 min read
Updated: Nov 21
As a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), I’ve had the privilege of guiding thousands of patients through their surgical journeys. One of the most common questions I hear is, “What’s it like to go under general anesthesia?”
If you’re preparing for surgery, it’s natural to feel curious or even a bit nervous about this part of the process. In fact, some studies indicate that more people are afraid of anesthesia than the surgery itself! My goal is to walk you through what general anesthesia entails, how it keeps you safe, and what you can expect on the day of your procedure. By understanding the process, I hope to clarify each step and replace any worries with confidence and calm.
Preparation
Before Your Surgery: Setting the Stage for Success
In the days leading up to your surgery, you'll have a pre-operative appointment with your surgeon and you may receive a phone call or have an appointment with a pre-operative nurse. This is an important time for you to discuss the procedure, ask questions, and receive critical pre-operative instructions. Here are some common guidelines you might encounter:
1. Nothing by Mouth After Midnight: This rule, also known as "NPO" (nil per os), means you should not eat or drink anything after a specified time, usually midnight before your surgery. The reason for this is to keep your stomach empty, which reduces the risk of aspiration—where stomach contents could enter the lungs during anesthesia. Following this guideline is crucial for your safety.
2. Medication Adjustments: You may need to stop taking certain medications, especially blood thinners or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can increase bleeding risk. Conversely, your surgeon might prescribe specific medications to take the night before or the morning of your surgery. Be thorough in disclosing all medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. This helps us avoid any potential interactions with the anesthesia.
3. Lifestyle Adjustments: You may also be advised to avoid alcohol and smoking in the days leading up to your surgery. These substances can affect your body’s response to anesthesia medications and your overall recovery.
4. Arrangements for Post-Operative Care: Since you’ll be under general anesthesia, you will need someone to drive you home after the procedure. Make arrangements in advance for a trusted friend or family member to be there for you.
Following these instructions is vital. If they are not adhered to, your surgery could be cancelled, which can be disappointing and inconvenient.
Curious about the different types of anesthesia or not sure what kind of anesthesia you're having? Click the image below to read What is Anesthesia? Understanding the Types and Their Safety
Arrival at the Hospital
On the day of your surgery, you will arrive at the hospital or surgery center at your scheduled time. Upon checking in, you will need to fill out some paperwork, and you will be asked to confirm your identity and the procedure you’re having. This is a standard safety measure to prevent any confusion and you will be asked these questions several times before your surgery.
Once checked in, you will be escorted to the pre-operative area. Here, you will meet the nursing staff, who will take your vital signs—such as blood pressure and heart rate—and review your medical history. This is an excellent opportunity to voice any concerns or questions you may still have.
Want to know about any possible general anesthesia side effects? Click the image below.
Pre-Operative Area
In the pre-operative area, a nurse will insert an intravenous (IV) line into a vein, usually in your arm or hand. This IV is essential for administering pre-operative medications ordered by your surgeon, like antibiotic, as well as IV fluids, and, eventually, general anesthesia sleep-inducing medication.
During this time, your anesthesia provider will arrive to meet you and discuss your medical history in more detail. They will ask about any allergies, previous experiences with anesthesia, and any concerns you might have. This conversation is crucial for tailoring your anesthesia plan to your specific needs and ensuring your safety.
Induction of Anesthesia: The Transition to Sleep
Once you’re ready, you’ll be taken into the operating room. It might look a bit intimidating with all the equipment and bright lights, but rest assured that every part of the room is designed with your safety in mind. You’ll be asked to lie down on the operating table which feels like a less cushy stretcher, and your anesthesia provider will begin the process of inducing general anesthesia.
The induction phase typically involves administering medications through your IV. You might notice a warm sensation as the medication takes effect. Some patients describe this as feeling relaxed or drowsy. Additionally, you may be given oxygen through a mask to help with your breathing.
As the medications take effect, you will gradually drift off to sleep. This process usually happens quickly, and before you know it, you’ll be unconscious and unaware of what’s taking place around you. Most of the time, general anesthesia will require placement of some type of breathing device AFTER you fall asleep. This could be an endotracheal tube or a laryngeal mask airway.
Rest assured that you will be completely asleep prior to this step and with the overwhelming majority of surgeries, this device is typically removed when the surgery is over. One time when the endotracheal tube could have to stay in after surgery is with major surgeries, when a patient is expected to go to ICU afterward. Patients typically know about this possibility ahead of the surgery day. Please know that if you are having this type of major surgery, you will be given medication in ICU to help and that the endotracheal tube will be removed as soon as there are signs that your body can maintain your airway on its own.
What Happens During General Anesthesia? During the Surgery: Safety and Monitoring
As soon as you fall asleep and the entire time you’re under anesthesia, your anesthesia provider is watching and helping you, and you don't even know it. He or she will closely monitor your vital signs, including your heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and respiratory rate. This constant monitoring ensures that any changes can be addressed immediately, keeping you very safe throughout the procedure.
The surgical team will also be in constant communication with your anesthesia provider, ensuring that everything goes smoothly. The entire process is orchestrated and timed perfectly to minimize risks and maximize safety.
Here is a nice video about what to expect on the day of your surgery.
Recovery: Waking Up and Adjusting
Once the surgery is complete, we’ll stop the anesthesia medications, and you’ll begin to wake up naturally. You’ll be moved to a recovery area, often called the PACU (Post-Anesthesia Care Unit), where nurses will monitor you as you fully wake up. You might feel groggy, a bit like waking up from a deep nap, but this fades quickly for most people. Some folks feel a little chilly or have a dry mouth, but we’ll offer blankets and sips of water to help you feel comfortable.
Pain management is a priority, so we’ll work with you to ensure any discomfort is addressed. Most patients are awake and chatting within 30 minutes to an hour, ready to reunite with loved ones or rest quietly.
Maybe you're wondering, how many times is it safe to have anesthesia? Click the image below to find out.
Discharge: Planning for Home Care
Once you’re stable and feeling a bit more alert, the nursing staff will assess you to determine if you are ready for discharge. Depending a few factors including the type of surgery and your physical health you may be able to go home the same day or you might need to stay overnight for observation.
Before you leave, you will receive post-operative instructions, including how to care for any incisions, what to watch for in terms of complications, and when to follow up with your surgeon. It’s crucial to have someone with you to help you understand these instructions, as you may still be feeling the effects of anesthesia.
How Safe Is General Anesthesia?
Safety is at the heart of everything we do in anesthesia care. Thanks to decades of advancements in medications, technology, and training, general anesthesia is remarkably safe for the vast majority of patients. Let’s look at some reassuring numbers:
According to studies, the risk of serious complications from general anesthesia is less than 1 in 100,000 for healthy patients. To put that in perspective, it’s safer than driving to the hospital!
Modern monitoring equipment allows us to detect and respond to changes in your condition in real time, often before they become an issue.
Anesthesia providers, like nurse anesthetists and anesthesiologists, undergo years of specialized training to anticipate and manage any challenges that might arise.
Of course, every patient is unique, and factors like age, health conditions, or the type of surgery can influence your anesthesia plan. That’s why we tailor your care to your specific needs, discussing any risks or concerns with you beforehand. For example, if you have a heart condition, we might adjust medications or monitoring to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Still worried about anesthesia? That's ok. Let's keep learning. Click the image below to read How to Overcome the Fear of Anesthesia: Tips for a Better Surgery Experience. Bonus! You can also access our FREE printable Preoperative Checklist for Anesthesia.
Why You Can Feel Confident
One of the reasons I love my job is seeing the relief on patients’ faces when they realize how much care goes into their anesthesia experience. Here are a few reasons you can feel at ease:
You’re Never Alone: Your anesthesia team is with you from start to finish, watching over you like a trusted friend. We’re trained to handle everything from routine procedures to complex cases.
Personalized Care: We design your anesthesia plan based on your health, the surgery, and even your preferences. If you’re worried about nausea, for instance, we can add medications to help prevent it.
Proven Safety: General anesthesia has been used safely for over a century, with continuous improvements making it safer than ever. The medications we use are precise, fast-acting, and carefully dosed.
A Few Common Questions
Will I wake up during surgery?
This is a common worry, but it’s extremely rare. Known as “anesthesia awareness,” it occurs in less than 0.1% of cases, usually in very specific situations like emergency surgeries. We use multiple layers of monitoring to ensure you stay comfortably asleep.
Will I feel pain?
No, general anesthesia ensures you feel no pain during the procedure. After surgery, we work closely with you to manage any discomfort as you recover.
How will I feel when I wake up?
Most people feel a bit sleepy or groggy, but this passes quickly. Some describe it as waking up from a deep, refreshing nap. We’ll be there to help you feel comfortable and supported.
So many people have this over-arching question: Will I Die From Anesthesia? Sometimes they just do not want to admit this to themselves or say it outloud. If you share this concern, you should click the image below to read the article, Will I Die from Anesthesia: Understanding the Safety of Modern Anesthesia.
Preparing for Your Day
To make your anesthesia experience as smooth as possible, here are a few tips:
Follow Pre-Surgery Instructions: We’ll ask you to avoid eating or drinking for a certain period before surgery. This keeps you safe during anesthesia.
Share Your History: Let us know about any medications, allergies, or past anesthesia experiences. This helps us customize your care.
Ask Questions: No question is too small. We’re here to help you feel informed and confident.
Maybe you're still wondering, How Can I Keep Myself Safe Under Anesthesia? Click the image below
A Final Note of Reassurance
As someone who’s been part of countless surgeries, I can tell you that general anesthesia is one of the most remarkable tools in modern medicine. It allows your surgical team to focus on helping you heal while we ensure you’re safe and comfortable. My hope is that by understanding the process, you’ll feel empowered and ready for your procedure, knowing you’re in caring, expert hands.
If you’re facing surgery, take a deep breath—you’ve got this. We’ll be with you every step of the way, making sure your experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Feel free to re-read this article leading up to your surgery day. Close your eyes and visualize the process and practice observing what is happening and appreciating the expertise of those whose purpose lies in caring only for you. Prepared patients have better outcomes.
Have more specific questions about anesthesia? Click the logo below to see additional Articles that may help.
References:
- American Association of Nurse Anesthetists. (n.d.). "From pre-op to wake-up: Trust in anesthesia care starts here" [AANA] (https://www.aana.com/) (https://www.aana.com/news/from-pre-op-to-wake-up-trust-in-anesthesia-care-starts-here/)
- American Society of Anesthesiologists. (n.d.). "General Anesthesia." [ASA](https://www.asahq.org/) (https://madeforthismoment.asahq.org/anesthesia-101/types-of-anesthesia/general-anesthesia/)
**Information provided is intended as general healthcare information for the public and should be used as a guide. This information should not be substituted for the specific personal advice recommended by your own healthcare team who are familiar with your specific health history.*