Acknowledgments

vi

Introduction

vii

ANESTHESIA: THE ART OF COMFORT

1

At the Helm: The Anesthesiologist

2

2

Choices, Choices: Tools of the Trade

14

IT’S SHOWTIME! WHAT TO EXPECT

3

The Countdown: Diving In

38

4

Clean and Serene: The Operating Room

48

5

Watching Over You: Monitors and Measures

60

6

The Recovery Room: Wake Up and Feel Better

74

7

The “Ouch” Factor: Controlling Pain

84

SPECIAL TOPICS

8

Nips and Tucks: Repair, Restore, Rejuvenate

102

9

Weighty Matters: What About the Heavy Patient?

118

10

Labor of Love: Enjoy Childbirth

126

11

The Smallest Breaths: When Your Child Needs Anesthesia

136

12

Smile! Dentistry and Oral Surgery

146

13

The “Ick” Factor: Post-Operative Nausea and Vomiting

156

14

Awake? Aware? Taking Care

166

REFERENCES AND TOOLS

Anesthesia through the Ages

178

Everyday Medications Used for Anesthesia

184

Glossary

186

References

198

Index

204