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An anesthesiologist is trained to provide pain relief and maintenance, or restoration, of a stable condition during and immediately following an operation, an obstetric or diagnostic procedure. The
anesthesiologist assesses the risk of the patient undergoing surgery and optimizes the patient's condition prior to, during, and after surgery. In addition to these management responsibilities, the
anesthesiologist provides medical management and consultation in pain management and critical care medicine. Anesthesiologists diagnose and treat acute, long-standing and cancer pain problems; diagnose
and treat patients with critical illnesses or severe injuries; direct resuscitation in the care of patients with cardiac or respiratory emergencies, including the need for artificial ventilation; and
supervise post anesthesia recovery.
Training required: Four years
Certification in one of the following subspecialties requires additional training and examination.
Critical Care Medicine: An anesthesiologist who specializes in critical care medicine diagnoses, treats and supports patients with multiple organ dysfunction. This specialist may
have administrative responsibilities for intensive care units and may also facilitate and coordinate patient care among the primary physician, the critical care staff, and other specialists.
Pain Management: An anesthesiologist who provides a high level of care, either as a primary physician or consultant, for patients experiencing problems with acute, chronic and/or
cancer pain in both hospital and ambulatory settings. Patient care needs may also be coordinated with other specialists. |