Expert: Ronald Levy, M.D. - 3/27/2009

Question
Hi,

Who should I speak with when my pre-op plan was not honored as my patient right?

I asked for NO versed, specifically because I've discovered from prior surgeries (I've had 16 of various types) that it gives me retro + antero memory impairment for about 2 months.

When in PACU, the doctor wanted to explain my arthroscopic photos, and I said that I couldn't see them (I wear progressive lense glasses).  The CRNA said, oh that's from the versed. I responded versed, I said no versed, the form said no versed (the pre-adm anesthesia wrote it as she said in case she didn't get my case).  The CRNA's response was I only gave you a little bit.

Well, surprise, I have retro and antero memory impairment.

I've now ordered a medic alert, which I will wear for life that says allergic to benzos.  Hopefully if I wear it and am ever in a car accident and am unconscious, it will be given credence.

Who should I speak with about this CRNA?  I am furious not to mention anxiety filled every time it happens.

Thank you for any advice.

Answer
In most hospitals (unless it is a small town), CRNAs are under the supervision of an MD anesthesiologist. You should speak to that anesthesiologist or his chairman. As for the future, I don't know if I would go so far as  to weart a medic alert or report a benzo allergy because technically it is not an allergy. Does this happen with all benzos or just Versed? The best course of action is to make sure to tell any future anesthesiologist (on the morning of surgery and again in the room if necessary) that you don't want Versed.

Sorry for your bad experience,

Ronald Levy, MD
Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston