Induction of anaesthesia

Induction of anaesthesia aims to produce a smooth transition from awake to an unconscious state, whereby neither awareness nor the perception of noxious stimuli occurs. Careful planning, with a preoperative assessment and explanation of the procedure to the patient is essential. During induction, rapid physiological changes occur that require continuous monitoring and vigilance by the anaesthetist with the aid of electrical monitoring, and a trained assistant. The choice of induction technique depends on a combination of patient and surgical influences, as well as the anaesthetist’s preference and level of experience. This article summarizes the conduct of safe induction, the possible techniques, including intravenous and inhalational techniques, and the necessary monitoring equipment. Emergency induction of anaesthesia and the potential complications that can occur, as well as the potential hazards of remote anaesthesia are also discussed.