When does anesthesia time officially start?

The official start of anesthesia time is recognized as when the anesthesia provider prepares the patient for anesthesia care. This phase involves several critical steps, including evaluating the patient, discussing the anesthesia plan, and positioning the patient to ensure safety during the procedure. This preparation is essential for the overall anesthesia process, as it sets the stage for the safe administration of anesthetic medications.

While administering the medication is a crucial aspect of the anesthesia administration and billing may take place later, these actions are part of the overall anesthetic management that builds upon the initial preparation phase. Therefore, the act of preparing the patient directly marks the beginning of the anesthesia time, reflecting the standard protocols outlined for anesthesia services.