When you’re gearing up for a surgical procedure, it’s comforting to know that while the doctors are dedicated to your well-being, there might just be a few lighthearted and amusing moments that create a shared memory filled with laughter for both you and the medical team.
Anesthesia can have a fascinating impact on a person’s state of mind, leading to temporary changes in awareness, behavior, and inhibitions. Consequently, you might find yourself witnessing some entertaining and cheerful instances in the operating room.
1. A patient began the familiar countdown from 100 as the anesthesia took effect. He reached the age of 97, and suddenly his words began to slur as he closed his eyes. Moments later, he suddenly shot his eyes open and exclaimed, “JUST KIDDING!” It sent a wave of fear through the entire operating room. In that moment, his eyes rolled back, and just like that, he was gone. My all-time favorite anesthesia induction experience. @famous_Board_8204 / Reddit
2. The first time I went under the knife, the surgeon looked at me and asked, “First time? Don’t worry, me too.” Just before they injected the anesthesia. @ Absoli / Reddit
3. My wife received anesthesia as part of the preparations for her c-section. I was granted access to the room just moments before the surgery began. Upon my arrival, the very first words that escaped my lips were: “It’s ok, honey, I’m here now.” The reply I received was simply, “That’s nice. But do you know when my husband will be here?” @yellowjacketcoder / Reddit
4. I once shared with my anesthesiologist that I was determined to resist the effects of the drugs and remain awake. He responded with a smile “I love a challenge, you know what the best part is?” I glanced at him just as he wrapped up with, “I always win,” and then suddenly, I found myself waking up in post-op. @ NorthIslandAdventure / Reddit
5. As a young child, I experienced a shocking event when my mom had a terrible accident and fell off our roof, resulting in a broken back. Apparently she was terrified she was going to become a vegetable, because after her back surgery she asked the nurse, “Am I a broccoli, or a cauliflower?”. @ tananda7 / Reddit
6. During my wisdom teeth extraction, I noticed an air bubble traveling down the IV tube. I remembered that injecting air into your veins can lead to an aneurysm, which could ultimately be fatal. In a moment of panic, I exclaimed, “Brain aneurysm!” Little did I know that a small amount of air, like the half-inch bubble I spotted in the tube, was actually fine. Plus, IVs are designed with a vent to release any air. Who knew?
And then, just like that, I was knocked out. After the procedure, the oral surgeon filled me in on everything. Said it was the funniest thing someone has said before going under. Eventually, I discovered that what I actually meant was an embolism, not an aneurysm, but I was unaware of that back then. @ C0ldBl00dedDickens / Reddit
7. I found myself in a bit of a debate with my anesthesiologist. I made it clear to her that counting was off the table, and I stood my ground, determined not to go under. Her laughter echoed in the background as I slowly drifted off to sleep. @ ElJefePinche / Reddit
