Anesthesia safety: Specialist addresses patient fears of not waking up

Neuroanesthesiologist Yicel Féliz has identified the fear of not waking up from anesthesia as a primary concern for patients undergoing surgery. Speaking at the X National Congress of the Dominican Society of Spine Surgery and the V International Course of the Ibero-Latin American Spine Society, Féliz emphasized that modern advancements in the field have significantly increased procedural safety.

To mitigate patient anxiety and ensure safety, specialists utilize rigorous preanesthetic evaluations, advanced monitoring technology, and individualized care plans. The evaluation process begins well before surgery, allowing clinicians to assess the patient's health status, explain anesthetic techniques, and build trust. Factors such as the type and duration of the surgery, existing medical conditions, whether the procedure is elective or urgent, and preoperative fasting requirements all influence the selection of the most appropriate anesthetic technique.