Question:
A wave of panic is beginning to hit me at times, now that I am 5 days pre-op,

I am VERY AFRAID of general anesthesia--not the surgery, not the healing, nothing but anesthesia. I already have met with them, and they said they are writing in my orders to have Versed IV as soon as the IV is in. Is this really gonna do the trick? I am afraid it is just going to weaken me, so that I can't question or ask for anything--like in a dream when you can't make your point clear. I want to be unaware!!!! PLEASE--be honest--this is clearly the most unsettling part of this experience for me. I don't want to be put on a roller coaster, scared, and unable to tell anyone "Let me off..."    — Wannabe A. (posted on November 8, 2002)

November 8, 2002
Probably no one will convince you otherwise, you have to live thru it yourself. I was the same way, scared to death of anesthesia until 1998 when I had my first of 3 surgeries. And I am a nurse. Today's anesthesias are wonderful and you will not remember anything. Versed is a great drug, one of its best properties is its ability to wipe out your recall. Not only will you not need to tell anyone "let me off" but even if you do, you won't remember it.
   — Dana S.

November 8, 2002
Dear Wannabe, I too was afraid of being put to sleep. It sounds like you have already expressed your concerns with the Anesthesiaologist (sp). Believe me they really do know what they are doing. I have been put to sleep 5 times and I have survived each time. They just bring you in the OR. You are placed on the OR table. They place the IV in your arm and say a few things to try and make you comfortable and relaxed. Each time they have asked me to count from 100 down and I don't ever remember getting past 98. The next thing you know you wake up in the recovery room with a nurse there who is taking your vitals and telling you to take a deep breath and cough. Everything should be okay. I will be praying for you to have a uneventful surgery and fast recovery. So you can be on the "Losing Side!"
   — babrewer

November 8, 2002
hi, i am about 5 wks post, and this surgery was my 1st. i got on verced right away once the IV was put in. it didn't make me dizzy, just totally relaxed and happy. i was laughing and talking to my sisters and all the anxiety was gone. also, i remember everything from that day, so it didnt wipe out my memory. it just made me feel drunk and happy and like i didnt even care what was happening, just carefree and relaxed!! i recommend it!!!!!! :)
   — Iris B.

November 8, 2002
You are perfectly "normal." Did you know the definition of FEAR = Face Everything And Recover? Yup. Be sure they run your tranq in the holding area. I don't even remember the operating room. But, I have waited before, until after I am on the table. No thanks! Ahead of time is soooo much better :-) Also, here is a visual for ya: Picture yourself wrapped up in your favorite kozy, blanket/quilt--nice and warm, relaxed, peaceful & happy. Picture being lifted up and handed to God, for safety during your surgery. Keep your eyes closed and keep that visual going! I don't recall the recovery room, either!
   — Barbara B.

November 11, 2002
Dear Wannabe, My iv was put in in the preop surgical area. I remember them rolling me to the operating room, but I don't remember even making it there! I also have no recollection of the recovery room, none at all. My first memory is waking up in my private room with my family around me. And that's how I like it!
   — Becky P.