Education
Awake or Asleep? How to Decide
There is no universally right answer. Here are the questions that help you and your team decide.
1. What procedure is planned?
Length, extent and position matter. Some operations suit local anesthesia; others are better with sedation or general anesthesia.
2. How do you feel about being awake?
Curious people often do well. Nervous people sometimes do well with light sedation. If the idea truly distresses you, choosing to be asleep is legitimate.
3. What does your health history say?
Your anesthesiologist considers your medical conditions, medications and previous anesthetics. These can make one option safer than another.
4. What matters most to you?
Some people want to avoid a breathing tube. Others want to remember nothing. Say so; your preference shapes the plan.
5. Can the plan change?
Yes. Comfort and safety always come first, and the approach can be adjusted on the day.
Not sure? Take the Comfort Compass and bring your summary to your consultation.