On being aware by request. A mother's unplanned request during the course of a Caesarean section under general anaesthesia.
A patient became wakeful during a general anaesthetic for Caesarean section. The isolated forearm technique for assessing wakefulness was in use. In response to questioning, the patient indicated by hand signals her wish to remain awake. She felt no pain. After the operation she was able to remember the experience, being told about the delivery, and hearing her baby cry. The words from a tape-recording of the anaesthetist's postoperative visit on the next day are presented.
D000768:Anesthesia, General; D000773:Anesthesia, Obstetrical; D001364:Awareness; D002585:Cesarean Section; D003071:Cognition; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011939:Mental Recall; D011184:Postoperative Period; D011247:Pregnancy; D014851:Wakefulness