Anesthesia Providers 

A patient induced by an anesthetic substance will lose feeling, sensation, and sensitivity to pain. There are several types of anesthesia which will require various nursing interventions by the circulating nurse to care for the patient and to assist the anesthesia provider.

(ORNAC, 2021) 

The following healthcare professionals are authorized to provide general anesthesia and monitored anesthesia care. (select the + hotspots in the image to reveal information)(MAC)


ASA Classification 

ASA classification was developed by the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) which identifies an estimate of perioperative risk. The classification notes the surgical patient’s physiological condition including anatomic abnormalities, diseases, and physiologic dysfunction. 

(Campbell, 2019) 


🧩 Practice Activity 

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Considerations When Choosing an Anesthetic 

Choosing an anesthetic involves the patient, surgeon, and anesthesia care provider. The patient’s history and physical status are assessed. Lab work and diagnostic tests may be performed. 

The choice is influenced by several factors: 

Patient preference

Surgeon preference

Coexisting diseases

Mental status and psychological status

Length of surgery

Type of surgery

Patient positioning during surgery

Post-operative recovery plans

Pain control