Glossary / Lexicon

Anesthesia refers to the loss of sensations of temperature, touch, or pain.

In the psychology context, anesthesia refers to a medical intervention used to induce a loss of sensation or consciousness in a patient. It is often used during surgical procedures to reduce pain and discomfort, and to enable medical professionals to perform procedures safely and effectively.

Here are some examples of anesthesia and how it is used in psychology:

• General anesthesia: General anesthesia is a type of anesthesia that induces a loss of consciousness and sensation throughout the entire body. It is typically administered through intravenous injection or inhalation of gases such as nitrous oxide or sevoflurane. General anesthesia is commonly used during major surgeries or procedures that would otherwise cause significant pain or discomfort to the patient.

• Local anesthesia: Local anesthesia is a type of anesthesia that numbs a specific area of the body, such as a limb or a specific organ. It is typically administered through injection or topical application of a numbing agent such as lidocaine. Local anesthesia is commonly used during minor surgical procedures or medical treatments that would otherwise be painful or uncomfortable.

• Sedation: Sedation is a type of anesthesia that induces a state of relaxation and reduced awareness. It is typically administered through intravenous injection or inhalation of gases such as nitrous oxide or propofol. Sedation is commonly used during medical procedures or treatments that require the patient to remain calm and still, such as MRI scans or dental procedures.

Overall, anesthesia is an important tool used in psychology and medicine to manage pain and discomfort, and to enable medical professionals to perform procedures safely and effectively. However, it can also pose risks and side effects, and should always be administered and monitored by trained medical professionals.

Articles with 'Anesthesia' in the title

• General anesthesia: General anesthesia is defined as the reduction of pain by rendering the subject unconscious. It is the process of eliminating pain by putting the person to sleep
• Glove anesthesia: Glove anesthesia is defined as the state in which people lose all feeling in one hand as if they were wearing a glove that wiped out all physical symptoms

Summary

Anesthesia in psychology refers to the loss or reduction of physical sensation, often achieved through drugs or other medical interventions. In this context, anesthesia can also refer to a state of reduced awareness or altered consciousness. The use of anesthesia in psychology can help patients manage pain, anxiety, and other overwhelming stimuli during medical procedures or therapy sessions. It can also be used as a tool in exploring the unconscious mind and understanding the impact of past experiences on behavior and emotions. Overall, anesthesia in psychology plays a crucial role in promoting comfort, safety, and progress in therapeutic settings.

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