Awareness and Recall

Awareness and recall under anesthesia is a complication that appears to be related to the use of muscle relaxants. While little is known about unconscious awareness and its physical and psychological consequences, it is well known that recall can result in traumatic psychological sequelae under certain circumstances. The anesthesiologist must be aware of the possibility of awareness before it occurs and either try to avoid it or explain to the patient the possibility of awareness and the circumstances under which it might occur. In the event of unexpected awareness, the anesthesiologist must deal with the patient in an honest and forthright manner. Failure to do so may lead to dire psychological consequences for the patient and legal consequences for the anesthesiologist.