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The breathing machine (Ventilator) This is to support your
heart and lungs after surgery. It passes oxygen through a tube in your mouth.
This tube reaches down into your windpipe. The tube is still in place as you slowly
come out of the sedation period. However, it is possible that you may not be
aware of this due to the anaesthetic effect. It is necessary that you breathe
yourself before the tube is removed. Advice given by staff to the writer
suggests that is preferable to try and suck on the pipe “as if it were a
lollipop”. This has been found to be one of the easiest ways of coping with
the pipe even though you will more than likely be unaware of what is actually
going on. Once the nursing staff are
satisfied you have taken over the breathing yourself, the tube will be
removed. Once again, it is quite possible that you will not either feel too
much of this action or remember it. An oxygen mask covering your mouth and
nose will replace the tube. You will also be allowed a drink. |
