General anesthesia does have risks, although when compared to the mortality and morbidity associated with heroin use, it is relatively safe when administered by a specialist trained in the delivery of anesthesia. Caution should also be exercised in deciding who administers the anesthetic. Currently, it is legal in the United States for a nurse anesthetist to administer an anesthetic without the supervision of an anesthesiologist as long as a physician supervisor is available. As a result, some addiction specialists providing this service may hire a nurse anesthetist and choose to supervise the nurse him or herself. This would be a cost saving measure.
Detoxification is only part of treating the addicted patient.
Identifying appropriate patients and providing post-detoxification rehabilitation are mandatory. The discussion forum is designed for use by the public and medical professionals. You can read, post, or reply to any article. A common mistake visitors make involves posting or replying to articles. Note that you can also search the discussion forum for specific information.