Which phase of anesthesia occurs intra-op?

The phase of anesthesia that occurs intra-operatively is the maintenance phase. During this stage, the patient is kept in a state of anesthesia throughout the surgical procedure. The anesthesiologist or anesthesia provider ensures that the patient remains unconscious, analgesic, and sufficiently paralyzed (if necessary) for the duration of the surgery.

Maintenance is critical because it involves the continuous administration of anesthetic agents, including inhalational or intravenous drugs, to sustain an appropriate level of anesthesia that allows the surgical team to perform the procedure safely and effectively. Monitoring of the patient's vital signs and anesthetic depth occurs during this phase to make adjustments as needed.

Induction refers to the initial phase where anesthesia is first administered to bring the patient to an unconscious state. Emergence occurs at the end of the surgical procedure when the patient is transitioning out of anesthesia and beginning to regain consciousness. Recovery follows emergence and involves the time spent in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) while the patient is monitored until they are stable enough to go home.