Postoperative care of patients with regional anesthesia includes assessment of the sensory and motor level of the area of the block. Document the return of motor function based on patients' ability to progressively move their feet, legs, and thighs. They often become hypotensive due to the vasodilatation from the sympathetic blockade associated with spinal and epidural anesthesia. These patients need continuous assessment while receiving fluids and sympathomimetic agents. Patients who are having difficulty breathing or who have a reduction in oxygen saturation may require endotracheal intubation and ventilatory support.
General anesthesia combines amnesia, analgesia, skeletal muscle relaxation, and sensory blockade.
Several anesthetic agents are necessary to achieve adequate surgical anesthesia. 7 Alfentanil is a popular IV adjunct in outpatient settings because of its short duration of action. Opioids produce analgesia, euphoria, and sedation. Benzodiazepines produce amnesia. Postoperative effects may include somnolence, disorientation, amnesia, and postoperative respiratory depression, if used in conjunction with opioids.