Anesthesia and patient monitoring vary greatly among clinics. When you choose your veterinarian, be sure to investigate the types of anesthetics used and the procedures used for monitoring anesthesia. Often the more expensive anesthetics are safer to use; however, anesthetic protocols are also chosen for other reasons including their ability to control pain. Prior to anesthesia, preliminary diagnostics are often recommended to ensure your companion's safety while undergoing surgery. These often include bloodwork and unrinalysis. Your veterinarian will discuss your individual pet's requirements. Monitoring patients under anesthesia may include a perioperative electrocardiogram, respiratory monitoring and blood pressure measurements. Patients with heart problems or other underlying diseases, geriatric patients and pediatric patients can all require intensive monitoring.
