Who are Anaesthetists?
Specialists in anaesthesia
An anaesthetist is a specialist who has undergone further medical training in the specialty of anaesthesia. Having completed medical school and worked for a minimum of 2 years as a doctor, the anaesthetist must then complete a minimum of 5 years of anaesthetic-specific training.
Once the training is complete and all requirements relating to exams and assessments fufilled, the trainee is admitted as a Fellow of the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (FANZCA), which enables him or her to practice as an anaesthetist in Australia and New Zealand.
To ensure knowledge, practices and protocols remain at the forefront, it is mandatory for every anaesthetist to participate in continuing medical education. This is run by the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA), as well as departmental meetings at each of the hospitals.
Responsibilities
Anaesthetists play an important and primary role in caring for the patient before, during and after surgery.
Prior to your surgery, your anaesthetist will meet you to discuss your past surgical and medical history, as well as brief you on your upcoming care for the surgery.
During the surgery, your anaesthetist is part of an essential team integral to your well being, and is supported by an anaesthetic nurse and/or an anaesthetic registrar (trainee). The team closely monitors your health and well being throughout the procedure to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery.
Anaesthetists play a pivotal role in resuscitating acutely unwell patients during the surgery, including trauma victims, and assist with the management of patients suffering from acute or chronic pain, as well as providing pain relief for women in labour.
