Requesting Extended Time After Anesthesia
I have a series of surgeries approaching, during which I will undergo anesthesia for the very first time. My boyfriend will be responsible for picking me up post-surgery, and I’m genuinely anxious about the possibility of saying something inappropriate, hurtful, or nonsensical. Given that I already experience anxiety and dislike the feeling of not being in control, this prospect is quite daunting. I avoid smoking and rarely drink because of these concerns. The last thing I want is to unintentionally upset him. I’m aware of numerous stories where individuals behave unexpectedly following anesthesia, and that truly unsettles me. When I set up my surgery, the physician mentioned that I would be monitored for thirty minutes before being discharged into my boyfriend's care. However, I’m curious if it’s possible to request an extended period alone. Could I instead ask for an additional thirty minutes, totaling an hour, before I head home? I would greatly appreciate any advice, tips, or anecdotes from those who have been in a similar situation. Details: 25 years old, female, 175 lbs, height 5’3”, currently on a daily regimen of sertraline and Allegra.
Answers (1)
9/15/2025, 7:10:47 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's completely understandable to feel anxious about the aftereffects of anesthesia, especially since this is your first experience with it. Your concerns about how you might behave and the impact on your boyfriend show that you're thinking ahead and want to minimize any potential discomfort.
First and foremost, it's important to recognize that many people feel disoriented after anesthesia, but most do recover quickly and return to their usual selves. The monitoring period after surgery is meant to ensure your safety and readiness to go home, and it normally includes checking your vital signs and observing your recovery.
Explanation: Anesthesia affects everyone differently, and while some individuals may behave unusually right after waking up, many others do not experience significant effects. It's natural to fear losing control, but medical teams are well-equipped to manage your post-anesthesia care and address unexpected behaviors. Communication with your healthcare team about your concerns is essential—they can provide reassurance and help you feel more comfortable.
Next Steps:
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Communicate Your Concerns: When you discuss your surgery with your medical team, let them know about your anxiety and your desire to remain calm. They might provide additional reassurance or advice tailored to your situation.
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Request Extended Monitoring: Politely ask if it is possible to stay an extra 30 minutes after the standard monitoring period. Explain your anxiety about the effects of anesthesia and your wish to ensure you're feeling back to normal before leaving. Most facilities will accommodate reasonable requests if they can, keeping your safety and comfort in mind.
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Prepare for Recovery: Consider having a calming strategy in place, such as deep breathing exercises or listening to soothing music during your recovery. This may help you manage anxiety before and after surgery.
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Inform Your Boyfriend: Talk to your boyfriend about how you feel. Sharing your concerns with him can help him understand your perspective, and he may feel more prepared to support you afterward.
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Post-operative Plan: After surgery, focus on taking it easy. Hydration and light meals can aid recovery. If you start to feel disoriented, trust your boyfriend and medical staff to help you through it.
Feeling anxious ahead of surgery is normal. The key is to openly communicate and prepare so that you can navigate your surgery with greater peace of mind. If you have more questions or need further support, feel free to reach out.
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