Anesthetic Allergies
Perioperative Anaphylaxis Clinic (POAC) at Vancouver General Hospital
POAC is a multidisciplinary clinic that serves patients with anesthetic allergies. Our team consists of Allergy, Anesthesia, and Pharmacy specialists. We are located at the Preadmission Clinic on the 3rd Floor of the Diamond Centre.
Healthcare provider section
POAC Clinic Referral July 11, 2024 .pdfHow do I refer patients?
Please visit our official website at https://www.vch.ca/en/service/perioperative-anaphylaxis-clinic-poac#find-it-near-you
We only accept referrals from medical practitioners. Our clinic specializes in patients with suspected anaphylaxis reactions that occur during an operation. Please fill the form and email it to allergy@vch.ca
How long is the waitlist?
The clinic usually runs every 4-8 weeks. Urgent referrals will be triaged accordingly.
Patient Section
Why were you referred?
You were referred to our clinic because you had an allergic reaction during or shortly after your surgery. It is essential to determine what was the culprit to prevent further reactions in future surgeries. Allergies to anesthetics can be severe and, in some cases, fatal. Our multidisciplinary team of Allergists, Anesthesiologists, and Pharmacists will find the trigger for your reaction.
What are anesthetics medications?
These are a group of medications used during operations to help with pain, sedation, and amnesia. Some patients can develop allergies to these medications.
Patient Instructions for periperative anaphyalxis.pdfWhich medications should I avoid prior to my appointment?
See the handout for details. In short, please avoid all antihistamines and allergy medications.