What does an Anesthesiologist do?
Anesthesiologists treat and prevent pain while monitoring the vital functions of their patients during surgical procedures. They also work in pain clinics, the ICU, and labor and delivery units. Anesthesiologists focus on the care of a surgical patient or assistance with pain relief drugs that reduce or eliminate the sensation of pain during an operation or another medical procedure.
In surgery, anesthesiologists adjust the amount of anesthetic as needed, and they are responsible for monitoring the patient’s vitals including heart rate, body temperature, blood pressure, and breathing. Outside of the operating room, anesthesiologists provide pain relief for patients in the ICU for women in labor and delivery and for patients suffering from chronic pain. Working with other physicians and surgeons, anesthesiologists decide on treatments and procedures before, during, and after surgery. Some anesthesiologists specialize in a field including cardiac, surgical, or pediatrics. An anesthesiologist needs a doctor of medicine or a doctor of osteopathy degree and a bachelor’s degree s in health sciences or pre-med; they require licensing and must also complete a four-year residency program.
- Ensure proper functioning and integrity of anesthesia equipment.
- May provide patient transport and environmental service support as needed.
- Monitor, transport, and transfer care to appropriate anesthesia or recovery personnel.
- Stock anesthesia supplies in carts at the point of care.
- Complete, document, and report all mandatory education and training.
- Manage ventilators and other respiratory care parameters as directed by the physician.
- Bachelor's Degree in biology.
- Fluent in sedation, intubation, ventilation and injections and their use and application for patients.
- Is a professional at all times with sound collaboration and critical thinking skills.
- Demonstrated professionalism and leadership in stressful environments such as the ICU.
- Adaptable and able to negotiate.
Anesthesiologist Salaries
Average Base Pay
Anesthesiologist Career Path
Learn how to become an Anesthesiologist, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Average Years of Experience
Anesthesiologist Insights
“Good good good good good”
“Firm provides opportunities to lear and shape your career.”
PwC“None of any reasons are good”
American Campus Communities“Free rent was nice I guess”
ZEROREZ Carpet Cleaning“Great people to work with!”
EY“Good pay as per experience”
Mazars“Work Life balance is good”
“good opportunities to learn ang grow”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of an Anesthesiologist
- Primary Care Physician
- Family Medicine Physician
- Physician
- Internal Medicine Physician