Display Patient Information Leaflets

Date issued: November 2024

For review: November 2026

Ref: A-651/TA/Anaesthetics/General Anaesthetic

PDF: General anaesthetic (Tavistock Hospital) [pdf] 314KB

Pain or Discomfort

You may find that once the anaesthetic has worn off you will start to experience some pain or discomfort. Taking regular painkillers should help reduce this. If the pain gets worse, you are advised to ring your GP for additional pain relief.

Follow up

If a follow up appointment is needed an appointment will be sent to you through the post.

Problems

If problems occur in the first 72 hours and you need information or advice, please use contact numbers below.

• Tavistock Theatre 01752 436100 or 111

• In an Emergency: Ring 999 for an ambulance and attend Derriford Hospital.

• After 48 hours if you are worried or concerned that you are feeling unwell or feel something isn’t right, please contact your GP to make an appointment or NHS 111 out of hours.

For the first 24 hours

You must NOT be alone for the first 24 hours following your procedure and must have a responsible adult with you throughout the first 24 hours. This is to ensure that you receive help if you become unwell.

The drugs you have been given may affect your judgement, because of this we ask that for 24 hours after your anaesthetic:

• You must not drive.

• We strongly advise you not to work.

• We strongly advise you not to operate machinery.

By carrying out the above activities you may be acting illegally due to the effects of the drugs.

We also advise that for your own safety and the safety of those around you that for 24 hours you:

• Not cook.

• Not use electrical equipment or tools.

• Not drink alcohol.

• Not sign legal documents.

Following a general anaesthetic, it is common to have minor side effects which can last for up to 24 hours or longer in some people. It is because of this we ask that you go straight home and rest to allow your body to fully recover.

They include:

• Headaches.

• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded.

• Nausea or vomiting.

• Sore throat / dry mouth.

• Tiredness or lethargy.

• General aches and pains.

These symptoms will normally go if you rest. If any problems persist consult your GP.

If you feel like you need to pass urine, but cannot, please ring Postbridge Ward on 01752 431225.

After 48 Hours

If you notice any signs of infection, such as, redness, swelling, heat, odorous discharge or pain, please contact your G.P. or NHS 111.

If you are worried or concerned that you are feeling unwell or feel something isn’t right, please contact your GP to make an appointment or NHS 111 out of hours.