The term 'waking up' leads to confusion and is better replaced by 'recovery of consciousness'. The anaesthetist supervises the quality of the recovery of consciousness. They will decide when you may leave the operating theatre to be admitted to the recovery room.
The recovery of consciousness is gradual as the anaesthetics wear off. The elimination of these drugs depends, among other things, on age, body weight and the effect of the medication on organs such as liver, kidneys, heart and lungs. Moreover, not all drugs administered by the anaesthetist are eliminated at the same speed.
The time you spend in the recovery room varies. You should not think that a long stay in the recovery room means that there are complications: after all, it is about your safety. The result of the surgery can best be monitored in the recovery room.
After regional anaesthesia, the recovery of nerve function is progressive. This may take several hours. At some point, you will be able to move again without feeling anything. Therefore, being able to move does not mean that you have regained your full strength. Before leaning on the part of the body that has been anaesthetised, ask a nurse for advice. During the recovery phase, a further stay in the recovery room is not always required.
When your condition has stabilised, you will be taken back to your room.
