Introduction:

The current situation caused by COVID-19 demands the implementation of new techniques in anesthetic management and pre-existing risks in surgical services.

Objective:

to identify the anesthetic considerations for patients with COVID-19 to suggest interventions in the surgical area.

Methodology:

Integrative review of descriptive scope in conjunction with compliance with the methodological steps of Whittemore-Knafl and the PRISMA parameters. The search was performed in the following databases: PubMed, VHL, Coronavirus Research Database, SCOPUS, Elsevier, and SAGE. A total of 953 articles were obtained, which together with a critical analysis by CASPe, met the established inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results:

Twenty-seven articles classified as: selection criteria for anesthetic techniques; general anesthesia and the use of specific medications for anesthetic management that reduce cough and prevent the release of aerosols; airway management to avoid failed intubations; regional anesthesia and nursing considerations in the preparation of elements and devices prior to the patient's admission to the operating room; identification and follow-up of symptomatic and asymptomatic patients during the perioperative process.

Conclusion:

Regarding the anesthetic technique, it is important to prioritize the use, as far as possible, of ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia. If general anesthesia is required, it is advisable to maintain precautions to prevent infection with the virus. For nursing, the role in preparing a safe surgical environment, knowledge of the anesthetic technique used and individualized care according to the required needs stand out.