Our Anaesthetists

About Our Anaesthetists

This document will outline some important information regarding anaesthesia for your forthcoming operation
It is intended to help prepare you for your anaesthetic and help you understand the efforts that are made to ensure your safety

An anaesthetist is a fully qualified doctor who has undergone at least 5 years of specialised training
Anaesthetists are trained to look after patients prior, during and after surgery
The anaesthetist makes preoperative assessments of any medical conditions that you to ensure you are provided with safe care during and after your surgery
Anaesthetists are also actively involved in the management of post surgical pain and other problems for as long as necessary

Your anaesthetist needs to know about your state of health

You should inform us about:

Any significant illnesses such as asthma, high blood pressure, heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, etc.

Anything you think that may be relevant, for example: loose teeth, smoking history, amount of alcohol consumption, etc.

These factors are important for your anaesthetist to plan your anaesthetic

Day surgery refers to the practice of admitting a person to hospital, performing an operation and discharging home on the same day
If you are scheduled for day surgery, please ensure that there is someone who will take you home and stay with you for the first 24 to 48 hours

General Anaesthetic
- This is a state of deep and controlled sleep brought on by special medication given by an anaesthetist
- Your anaesthetist will monitor your condition closely for the duration of the operation

Local Anaesthetic
- This is only suitable for minor operations
- A local anaesthetic drug is injected around the site of operation
- This numbs the area and allows the operation to proceed
- Local anaesthetics are also used in some operations that require a general anaesthetic to help reduce the amount of pain felt after an operation

If you have completed a patient health questionnaire that indicates any significant health problem, you may be sent for an appointment at the pre-anaesthetic clinic before your operation
Your surgeon will inform you if it is necessary for you to attend the preadmission clinic
You must follow any special instructions given – fasting times are very important
You may continue your usual medications unless your surgeon or anaesthetist gives you instructions to the contrary
It is advisable to have a moderated amount of exercise for a few weeks prior to your surgery unless your doctor has advised against exercise
If you develop a cold or any other infection in the week before your operation, please visit your local doctor who will arrange to contact your surgeon
Stop smoking at least 6 weeks before your operation

There is a risk involved with all anaesthetics and surgery
Australia is one of the safest countries in the world for anaesthesia and major complications are rare
If you have concerns or questions regarding your anaesthetic, your anaesthetists will gladly address them prior to surgery

Please follow the instructions given to you by the staff of the hospital
Fasting information is generally given to you by phone the day before your operation
For most operations you should not eat or drink for 6 hours before the operation commences