Warning Signs
Anesthesia awareness occurs when a patient has not been given enough anesthetic during a medical procedure. According to Anesthesia Awareness Campaign, Inc., anesthesia awareness occurs between 28,000 and 56,000 time every year. Factors associated with the condition include emergency surgery; long-term use of anticonvulsants, opiates, tranquilizers or cocaine; heart or lung problems; and daily alcohol use. Anesthesia awareness occurs more frequently when muscle relaxants are used, however the majority of occurrences result from equipment misuse/malfunction and anesthesiologist error.
Diagnosis & Care
If a patient wakes up during surgery and is able to recall some or all of the events, it’s likely that the patient experienced anesthesia awareness. The most common injuries associated with anesthesia awareness are anxiety, insomnia, nightmares, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Expenses
The effects of anesthesia awareness can be lasting. If the patient experienced pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of earnings, decrease in quality of life, or other costs associated with adapting the patient’s home to accommodate an injury, the patient may be entitled to compensation. Contact our medical malpractice lawyers for a free consultation.
Treatment Centers
Patients who have suffered anesthesia awareness should contact a mental health professional. For information on counseling with mental health professionals in your area, visit the American Counseling Association at www.counseling.org.
Books & Resources
For more information on anesthesia awareness, the following resources are available: