Which of the following is a desired patient outcome related to anesthesia?

• A. The patient remains awake throughout the procedure
• B. The patient experiences minimal post-operative nausea
• C. The patient reports adequate pain control
• D. The patient shows no signs of distress during recovery

Answer: (C)

The desired patient outcome related to anesthesia is that the patient reports adequate pain control. Adequate pain management is a fundamental goal in perioperative care, as it significantly contributes to patient comfort and recovery. Effective anesthesia techniques should not only focus on ensuring a pain-free experience during the surgical procedure itself but also aim to provide appropriate analgesia in the postoperative period. Maintaining effective communication about pain levels allows healthcare providers to address any discomfort promptly, improving overall patient satisfaction and outcomes.

While minimal post-operative nausea and the absence of distress during recovery are also important objectives in anesthesia management, they are secondary to the overarching goal of ensuring that pain is effectively controlled. Ensuring a patient remains awake during the procedure does not align with the typical goals of anesthesia, where sedation is often necessary for patient comfort and safety during more invasive procedures.