
ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) classification
The ASA classification is a system used by medical professionals to assess a patient's overall health before surgery. It ranges from ASA I, indicating a healthy person with no systemic disease, to ASA V, describing a critically ill patient who is unlikely to survive without surgery. This classification helps healthcare providers evaluate surgical risks and plan appropriate care. It considers factors like existing illnesses or conditions that might affect recovery. Overall, it’s a standardized way to communicate a patient’s health status and potential surgical risk.