Tag: Preoperative care

Studies show that nearly 60% of inpatients exhibit at least one abnormal vital sign within four hours of a cardiac arrest, highlighting the predictive power of these measurements [1.6.3]. This statistic underscores **why do we take vital signs before surgery**: to establish a crucial baseline for patient safety.

According to a 2017 review, hypertension can increase cardiovascular complications during surgery by 35% [1.2.1]. This raises a critical question for patients and doctors: **what blood pressure is too high for general anesthesia**, and when should a procedure be postponed for safety?

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, affects up to 25% of individuals undergoing surgery and is a significant factor in perioperative risk. So, is high blood pressure a risk for anesthesia? The short answer is yes, especially if it is not well-controlled. However, modern anesthesia and pharmacology have made it much safer to manage this condition during and after surgery.

Studies have shown that nicotine use, whether from traditional cigarettes or vaping, can significantly increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. This is why medical professionals strongly advise patients to quit all forms of nicotine well in advance of their procedure when considering the question: how long before anesthesia can you vape?.

According to the American College of Surgeons, quitting nicotine 4–6 weeks before an operation can significantly decrease the rate of wound complications by 50%. This statistic underscores a critical medical directive: **why can't you use nicotine before surgery?** The answer lies in the serious physiological dangers nicotine poses to a patient's cardiovascular and healing systems, compounding the inherent risks of any surgical procedure.

Studies show that up to 40% of elective surgeries in developed countries are cancelled on the day of the procedure, with medication issues being a preventable cause [1.9.5]. This raises the important question: Can I take a decongestant before surgery without risking complications?

Nerve blocks, including the femoral nerve block, are often performed with the patient conscious, but with some form of sedation to help manage anxiety. The decision of whether you will be awake, sedated, or under general anesthesia is a personalized one made in consultation with your anesthesiologist.

According to a survey, 22% of patients undergoing surgery have used herbal medicines, and many do not report this to their healthcare providers. This highlights a crucial safety concern, as a variety of prescription, over-the-counter, and recreational substances can significantly interfere with anesthesia and lead to serious complications.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), surgical site infections (SSIs) are a leading cause of hospital-acquired infections. To significantly reduce this risk, a specific, potent cleansing agent is required for preoperative skin preparation. This leads to the question, **what is the name of the antibacterial soap used before surgery?** While many brand names exist, the primary agent is typically Chlorhexidine Gluconate (CHG).

Surgical site infections are a leading cause of hospital-acquired infections, costing billions annually. Selecting the right antiseptic is a crucial component of prevention, and many patients wonder which antibacterial soap is best for surgery.