Introduction The duration of the side effects and after-effects of anesthesia depend on many factors. In addition to age, the anaesthetic used also plays a role. Basically, however, most postoperative symptoms such as nausea or slight confusion are only of short duration. Nausea If no preventive measures are taken, up to 30% of all patients … Duration of the side effects and after-effects of anaesthesia
With old people The side effects of anaesthesia can be manifold. Post-operative pain, nausea and vomiting after an anaesthetic, as well as states of confusion occur most frequently. Older patients in particular often suffer from a so-called postoperative delirium. According to various studies, between 30 and 40 percent of all over-60s are affected by this … With old people | Duration of the side effects and after-effects of anaesthesia
What’s a post-op delirium? Postoperative delirium is an acute, mostly temporary state of confusion and is also known as a transitional syndrome or acute organic psychosyndrome. It occurs in 5-15% of all patients. At the same time, various functions of the brain are restricted. There are changes in consciousness, thinking, moving, sleeping and feeling. It … Postoperative delirium
The symptoms The postoperative delirium usually develops within the first four days after an operation/general anaesthetic. Affected patients usually suffer from disorientation, especially a temporal and situational confusion. The orientation to the place and the person is rather intact. Further symptoms are anxiety and restlessness, patients often react irritably or even aggressively towards nursing staff … The symptoms | Postoperative delirium
The treatment The therapy consists of various measures. For all elderly or general patients in intensive care units, basic measures to maintain orientation (glasses, hearing aids) should be carried out. A regular and extended mobilisation, the avoidance of dehydration, as well as a balanced diet and the maintenance of the sleep-wake rhythm can prevent the … The treatment | Postoperative delirium
