If something goes wrong during anesthesia, the team watches for it right away and treats it as an emergency. Serious problems can include an allergic reaction, trouble placing a breathing tube, low blood pressure, or not enough blood and oxygen reaching the brain and major organs. Rarely, these problems can lead to serious harm or death. Anaesthetists are trained to deal with these emergencies, and they use monitors to watch you during the operation.

If you become aware during the operation, tell your anaesthetist, doctor, or nursing team as soon as you can. They will take your concerns seriously. Afterward, the anaesthetist will talk with you, ask what you remember, explain what may have happened, and may refer you to a mental health professional if needed.

Before planned surgery, the anaesthetist may see you in the weeks before the operation, review your health, allergies, and medicines, and may order extra tests. This helps them make a plan to lower risk and keep you safe.