Anaesthetist
OFO No: 221201
Other names for Anaesthetist:
- Anaesthesiologist
- Intensive Care Anaesthetist
- Medical Sedation Specialist
- Obstetric Anaesthetist
- Pain Management Specialist
Youtube clip – The Careers of Anaesthetist / Anaesthesiologist
For training options in South Africa – scroll down
What is an Anaesthetist?
An Anaesthetist is a medical doctor who specialises in anaesthesiology, intensive care medicine and pain management.
They give local and general anaesthetics to people before, during and after they undergo a medical procedure, such as surgery.
An Anaesthetist consults with the patient to find out their medical history and optimise surgical conditions for the surgeon.
They carefully monitor and maintain the patient’s bodily processes throughout the medical procedure. They ensure patient returns safely to consciousness and observe their recovery from the anaesthetic.
They are responsible for planning and carrying out pain management for the patient during anaesthesia and in the post-surgery.
What does an Anaesthetist do?
- consults with surgeon with regard to patient’s upcoming surgery
- talks to patient about their medical history and surgical conditions
- gives anaesthetic (local & general) to the patient for/during surgery
- monitorsand maintains patient’s bodily functions throughout surgery
- ensures patient returns safely to consciousness after surgery
- monitors patient after surgery
- monitors pain-management after surgery
- keeps detailed records
Are you … ?
- a qualified doctor?
- interested in the health and well-being of others?
- a person who wants to specialise?
- a quick thinker?
- attentive?
- observant?
- good under pressure?
- team player?
- a person with steady hands?
- a person with above average intelligence?
- empathic?
- responsible?
- prepared to work long, strange hours?
How do I become an Anaesthetist?
PATH 1
Become a Medical Doctor: CLICK HERE
Masters in Medicine (Anaesthetist)
- University of Cape Town
- University of KZN
- University of Pretoria
- University of Stellenbosch
- University of the Free State
- University of the Witwatersrand
Designation: Only after you have registered with the HPCSA may you use the title Anaesthetist
TRAINING:
- CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
- Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
- To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions.
- HPCSA: Health Professions Council of South Africa
OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Pharmacist or Microbiologist
Is becoming an Anaesthetist the right career choice for me?
