Anesthetist

Anesthetist is a medical professional who specializes in the administration of anesthesia and the oversight of patient care around surgical procedures. The term's meaning varies by country: in some regions it denotes physician specialists in anesthesiology who plan and supervise anesthesia; in others it includes non-physician clinicians such as nurse anesthetists who administer anesthesia under supervision or within defined practice scopes.

Training and qualifications: In most places, physician anesthetists complete medical school and a residency in anesthesiology, followed by board certification and ongoing continuing education. Non-physician anesthetists typically hold nursing or allied health degrees and complete accredited anesthesia programs with certification culminations. All anesthetists must establish competency in preoperative assessment, anesthesia planning, airway management, anesthesia administration, intraoperative monitoring, and management of emergencies.

Responsibilities and settings: Anesthetists assess patients before anesthesia, determine suitable techniques (general, regional, or monitored anesthesia care), induce and maintain anesthesia, monitor vitals and fluid status, manage airways, and facilitate emergence and recovery. They may also provide postoperative pain management. Work settings include operating rooms, labor and delivery units, intensive care units, and ambulatory centers, often collaborating with surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists. Safety and regulation: The specialty emphasizes patient safety, adherence to guidelines and safety checklists, and ongoing quality assurance.