Anesthesiologists play a critical role in ensuring patient safety during surgery. Alan Kaye Shreveport says that anesthesiologists work closely with the surgical team to ensure that the patient receives safe and effective anesthesia care throughout the surgical process. Alan Kye Shreveport shares various ways to ensure patient safety during surgery. Here are some of the ways they do this:
Preoperative evaluation: Before the surgery, anesthesiologists evaluate the patient's medical history, physical exam findings, and lab results to identify any potential risks or complications that may arise during anesthesia. This helps them determine the appropriate anesthesia technique and dosage for the patient.
Monitoring during surgery: During surgery, the anesthesiologist continuously monitors the patient's vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. They also monitor the patient's depth of anesthesia and adjust the dosages as needed to ensure the patient remains unconscious and pain-free.
Airway Management: An anesthesiologist manages the patient's airway during surgery. They may use techniques such as endotracheal intubation or a laryngeal mask airway to ensure the patient can breathe properly. The anesthesiologist carefully selects the appropriate airway management technique based on the patient's medical history, physical exam findings, and other factors. They also continuously monitor the patient's breathing during the procedure to ensure that the airway remains open and the patient can breathe comfortably.
Pain Management: Anesthesiologists are also responsible for managing the patient's pain during and after surgery. They may use medications such as opioids or local anesthesia to control pain and ensure patient comfort. They continuously monitor the patient's pain levels and adjust the medication dosages as needed to ensure that the patient remains comfortable
Postoperative care: After surgery, the anesthesiologist continues to monitor the patient's vital signs and manage any pain or discomfort that the patient may experience. They may also administer medications to help the patient wake up from anesthesia.