Recovery after day surgery: a survey of anaesthetists regarding return of home fitness and street fitness

Abstract

Anaesthetists from three hospitals were asked for their opinions on various aspects of day surgical care, particularly return to normal activities. There were marked differences in opinion, particularly with the role of the carer and the speed of return to the activities currently prohibited for 24 h. There was no consensus as to how often the patient should be checked upon by the carer. More than half of the anaesthetists chose to adhere to the current guidelines of avoiding driving for 24 h. Two-thirds of respondents were happy for their patients to return to work the day after surgery.