Throughout our upbringing, hospital visits have been commonplace, whether for treatment or to support a loved one post-surgery. Amidst the flurry of medical professionals involved, including surgeons, nurses, and specialists, we often overlook the vital role of anesthesiologists, focusing solely on doctors. Yet, the field of anesthesiology is pivotal. Referred to colloquially as “Behoshi ka Doctor” (the doctor of unconsciousness), an anesthesiologist possesses expertise beyond mere sedation and pain relief. Their scope encompasses perioperative care, specializing in pharmacology—the study of how the human body responds to various drugs.
What responsibilities does an anesthesiologist have during a surgical procedure
The role of an anaesthesiologist transcends the confines of the operating room, beginning well before surgery and extending far beyond it. They bear the responsibility of ensuring patients remain free from pain not only during but also after surgery, or in cases of ongoing conditions like cancer, which necessitate continuous care to alleviate discomfort.
In essence, these healthcare professionals are integral at every stage of the surgical process. During preparation, they advise on the appropriate dosage of anesthesia and provide guidance to patients on how to prepare for surgery. Throughout the surgery itself, they meticulously regulate sedation in accordance with the patient’s vital signs and any concurrent medical conditions. Finally, during the postoperative recovery period, they monitor the patient’s progress to ensure a smooth transition from sedation and promote optimal recovery.
Role of Anaesthesiologist
Let’s delve into these three crucial phases where the anaesthesiologist plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and comfort of the patient:
Pre-surgery
Prior to commencing surgery, the anaesthesiologist takes the responsibility of engaging with both the patient and the medical team. They conduct a thorough assessment of the patient’s medical history, perform a physical examination, and review any pertinent test results. This preoperative evaluation aims to ascertain the patient’s readiness for surgery and ensure the procedure is executed with utmost safety and efficacy.
This process, known as preoperative evaluation, guides the anaesthesiologist in devising a tailored plan for the surgery. This plan may involve administering general anesthesia to induce unconsciousness throughout the procedure or employing a regional nerve block to numb specific areas of the body, thereby mitigating significant pain.
During surgery
During surgery, the anaesthesiologist carefully monitors the patient’s vital signs, including heart and lung function, breathing rate, body temperature, fluid balance, and blood pressure, among others, while they are under anesthesia. Using this information, they adjust the patient’s level of consciousness to ensure a safe and comfortable surgical experience, minimizing pain as much as possible and facilitating a successful outcome.
Post-surgery
Ultimately, post-operative care involves ongoing monitoring by the anaesthesiologist to manage any pain and ensure the patient’s well-being. Acute pain immediately following surgery typically diminishes as the body heals. However, chronic pain, often stemming from injuries like nerve damage, requires specialized attention from the anaesthesiologist.
In summary, this article underscores the critical role of anaesthesiologists and their diverse responsibilities. Beyond pain management, they must maintain composure in high-pressure situations and possess strong interpersonal skills to address patient concerns effectively, thus upholding optimal safety and satisfaction throughout surgical procedures.