Courtesy of the American Society of Anesthesiologists

October 6, 2009
CHICAGO—
  • Placing a calendar in your room so you know what day of the week it is.
  • Putting photos of your family in your room.
  • Requesting a recovery room with a window, if possible, so you know if it is day or night.

7. Your caregivers should help you watch for cognitive problems after surgery

After a successful surgical outcome, it is easy to fall back into a daily routine and forget to watch out for post-surgical complications, which may include cognitive problems, or issues with mental function. To help prevent cognitive problems, caregivers are encouraged to do the following:

  • Request that your physician conducts a cognitive exam during your preoperative interview.
  • This will serve as a baseline for your physician to evaluate your mental function after surgery.
  • Monitor your physical and mental activity closely following surgery to prevent complications.
  • Ensure you avoid taking drugs with long-acting central nervous system effects, such as benzodiazepines, which are frequently used to treat insomnia, anxiety, seizures and muscle spasms.