At Daviess Community Hospital in Washington, Indiana, anesthesia care supports a wide range of inpatient and outpatient surgeries and procedures. Your anesthesia plan is tailored to your health history, procedure, and preferences, with a focus on safety, comfort, and a smooth recovery.
Quick take: General anesthesia, regional/nerve blocks, epidural/spinal, and IV sedation are available for eligible procedures performed at DCH. You’ll meet your anesthesia professional on the day of your procedure to review your plan, risks, and questions.
Anesthesiology manages pain relief, anxiety, and vital functions during and immediately after procedures. At DCH, your anesthesia professional:
General Anesthesia
You’re fully asleep and unaware during the procedure. Breathing support
and continuous monitoring are provided.
Regional Anesthesia (Nerve Blocks, Spinal, Epidural)
Numbs a specific region of the body for pain control during and after surgery.
Often used for orthopedic, abdominal, and obstetric procedures when appropriate.
Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC) / IV Sedation
You’re relaxed and comfortable while local anesthesia is used at
the surgical site. Vital signs are closely monitored.
Local Anesthesia
An injection numbs a small area for minor procedures; sometimes paired
with light sedation.
Your specific options depend on your procedure and medical status. Your care team will explain what’s recommended for you.
DCH uses a multimodal approach to manage pain and limit side effects when appropriate. Depending on your procedure, options may include:
Do I choose my anesthesia provider?
Your anesthesia professional is assigned as part of your surgical care
team at DCH and will meet you before your procedure.
Is anesthesia safe?
Serious complications are uncommon, but risk depends on your health and
the procedure. Your anesthesia professional will review individualized
risks and safety measures with you.
What can I eat or drink before surgery?
Follow the exact instructions from your surgeon or DCH. Not following fasting
guidance can delay or cancel your procedure.
Which medicines should I take the morning of surgery?
Follow the written instructions you receive. If unsure, call your surgeon’s
office for clarification.
Will I need someone to drive me home?
If you receive sedation or anesthesia for an outpatient procedure, you’ll
typically need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you
as instructed.
Who do I contact with questions?
Start with your surgeon’s office. If you’re already scheduled
at DCH, you may also hear from our team with pre-admission guidance.