Patient education: Monitored anesthesia care – Discharge instructions (The Basics)

What are discharge instructions? — 

Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care for a health problem.

What is monitored anesthesia care? — 

Monitored anesthesia care, or "MAC," is used for minor surgeries or procedures that might be uncomfortable. "Anesthesia" means different types of medicine people get before and during surgery or a procedure.

MAC might include:

●Sedative medicines – These make you relax and feel sleepy. This is also called "sedation."

●Pain medicines – These help keep you comfortable during and after the procedure.

Depending on the medicines you get, you might not remember much of the procedure. Many people do not remember the procedure at all after MAC.

How do I care for myself at home? — 

Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.

For the rest of the day after the procedure:

●Do not drive or operate heavy or dangerous machinery.

●Do not make any important decisions or sign any important papers.

●Do not drink alcohol of any kind.

You should also:

●Be careful when standing up the first time. Ask for help if you feel dizzy or like you might fall when you try to walk. Wear flat shoes with non-slip soles.

●Eat when you are hungry – If you have nausea, it might help to start with clear liquids and light foods that are easy to digest, like soup, pudding, or toast. You can eat other types of foods when you feel ready.

When should I call the doctor? — 

Call for advice if you:

●Have trouble breathing

●Vomit for more than 24 hours, or cannot keep fluids down

●Are dizzy

●Have any symptoms that worry you

More on this topic

Patient education: Monitored anesthesia care (The Basics)
Patient education: Managing pain after surgery (The Basics)
Patient education: Anesthesia in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: Anesthesia in children (The Basics)
Patient education: Sedation for procedures in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: Sedation for procedures in children (The Basics)