The anaesthetist's role is to watch you carefully; provide optimal anaesthesia and comfort, and ensure you are safe throughout. Most people do very well after anaesthesia whilst under the care of a specialist anaesthetist.

Before you consent to anaesthesia, you should be aware of some risks. Many of the risks are minor side effects and resolve quickly. Some are unpredictable and can apply to any person undergoing anaesthesia. Pre-existing medical conditions and the nature of the procedure may increase some of the risks. Your anaesthetist will discuss your risks with you and answer any questions you may have.

The risks include but are not limited to the following.

Common risks and side effects are usually brief and include:

General anaesthetic and/or sedation

• irritation and/or bruising at the injection site.
• nausea and vomiting
• drowsiness, feeling faint, confusion (delirium), disorientation initially after waking up
• headache
• shivering
• blurred vision
• itching
• sore or dry throat
• chest infection
• damage to teeth, lips and tongue
• bladder problems.

Regional Anaesthetic

• prolonged numbness or tingling.

Spinal and Epidural Anaesthetic

• nausea and vomiting
• headache
• backache
• shivering
• low blood pressure
• dizziness
• bladder problems.

Rare risks and complications include:

• allergic reactions or other reactions to anaesthetic drugs
• heart problems
• stroke
• breathing problems, including aspiration
• existing medical problems getting worse
• Awareness
• of visual disturbance
• muscle pain
• sleep problems.

Very rare risks of regional anaesthesia: nerve damage (paralysis or numbness): usually temporary, but may be permanent in some cases.; infection, bleeding

PATIENT CONSENT SIGNATURE

Even though the procedure will be carried out with due professional care, I have read and understand the potential risks, and I consent to proceed with anaesthesia.

If I have specific questions or concerns, I will discuss these with my anaesthetist, and I understand that I have the right to change my mind regarding consent at any time.