Optimiser la prise en charge du patient handicapé mental avant l'anesthésie

The anaesthetic management of mentally disabled patient is difficult. The period of time before the induction of anaesthesia, is especially complex because of low communication, understanding and emotional control with possible violent reactions. The authors have interviewed healthcare professionals and anaesthetists who take care of these patients, about their feelings, difficulties and suggestions for a better management. They have highlighted the value of a good specific knowledge about the mental disability, of the collaboration between health care providers and others, and the need to evaluate the personality, capacities and behaviour of the patients. To let the relatives close to the patient in the operating room could be helpful to relieve his anxiety and let him feeling secure and more cooperative.