The Role of an Anaesthetist in Patient Preparation And Pre-Operative Assessment

Posted by Admin on March 4th, 2015

There is no doubt that anaesthetists play an integral role in providing high quality pre-operative assessment and patient preparation. According to Dr. Rowan Molnar, Head of Discipline, Anaesthesia, University of Tasmania, anaesthetists assume a pivotal role in pre-operative services that go beyond mere preparation for the delivery of anaesthesia. They must possess the skills to assess any risks and support patients in the decision on whether to go ahead with surgery. The objective is to minimize risks and identify patients who are high risk, which can be achieved through co-operation with primary care. In addition, it is essential for skilled nurses to work closely with the anaesthetist in preparing patients for anaesthesia.

Provide proper patient preparation

Following scheduled admissions, the anaesthetist must ensure that patients are adequately prepared so that the surgery can proceed with the least possible risk. Dr. Rowan Molnar also stresses the importance of understanding a patient’s pre-operative status and the nature of surgery to determine the right anaesthetic technique and alleviate any risks a particular patient may face. For the most part, the onus for pre-anaesthetic assessment lies with anaesthetists, which is why they must take the lead in providing pre-anaesthetic services. Without proper patient preparation, there could be unnecessary delays and even cancellation of surgery.

A team approach

Pre-operative anaesthetic assessment services can improve a patient’s overall hospital experience and has the potential to reduce the risk of complications. Patients are likely to experience less anxiety as they can also have any question answered about the surgical process. According to Dr. Rowan Molnar who is also a Senior Staff Specialist at Launceston General Hospital, communication and a team approach is essential, and this includes everyone from the general practitioner to the physician, surgeon, anaesthetist, and specialist anaesthetic pre-operative assessment nurses.  The lead anaesthetist also has special responsibilities which include coordination between the anaesthetic and surgical departments and liaison with the pre-operative assessment nurse so that they receive sufficient training to deliver efficient pre-operative assessment and care. Most importantly, vulnerable groups of patients must be given extra support to ensure success during surgery and in the post operative stage.

Written by a professional author who describes the detail of Dr. Rowan Molnar.