Anesthetic considerations in geriatric patients.

The increasing number of geriatric patients presenting for surgical procedures provides continuing anesthetic challenges. With an understanding of each patient's situation and communication among all the participants in the procedural chain (patient, family, and the anesthesia, surgical, and nursing teams), a well-planned and well-executed anesthetic should help ensure a favorable outcome. The complexities outlined demonstrate that there is not one best way for every patient; rather, an individualized approach is necessary.