Hi, I am Your Anesthesiologist!
Do you want to know about the person who is going to make you sleep before you are going under the knife?
The field of Anesthesiology has grown enormously in recent decades. Yet unfortunately, the role of the Anesthesiologist often remains unclear to so many people and even those who pass through a surgical procedure may not come to know completely about the role played by his or her Anesthesiologist during the entire perioperative period.
For most patients, the very first interaction with their Anesthesiologist happens only a few minutes before surgery — a time when anxiety and fear are at their peak.
Yes! you must know him or her.
Taking a moment to understand who your Anesthesiologist is, and what they do, can ease those worries and help you feel safer and more confident before your procedure.
Who is an Anesthesiologist?
An Anesthesiologist is a highly trained doctor — after MBBS, they complete years of specialization (MD, DNB) in Anesthesia, critical care, and pain management.
But they do much more than “just put you to sleep.”
- They assess your physical, mental and psychological health before surgery and may optimise your health for the best surgical outcome. They meticulously review your medical history, allergies, and ongoing medications.
- This is done when your surgeon send you to an Anesthesiologist under Pre-Anesthetic check-up programme known in short PAC. Before any surgery, one of the most important steps is the pre-anesthesia check-up (PAC). This is when your Anesthesiologist meets you ahead of surgery.
- They subsequently choose the safest Anesthesia plan tailored for you.
- Monitor your vital parameters minute by minute and do timely intervention whenever needed while you are undergoing a surgery.
- Ensure smooth, clear-headed and pain-free recovery afterwards.
They are your silent guardian in the operation theatre — keeping you safe, comfortable, and cared.
Anesthesiologists: More than the OT
Anesthesiologists are not just “operation theatre doctors.” Their expertise extends far beyond surgery:
- Critical Care Specialists – Leading ICU management and handling life-support systems.
- Pain Physicians – Providing relief in chronic conditions like back pain, cancer pain, and nerve-related pain.
- Emergency Responders – Experts in resuscitation, trauma care, and life-saving interventions.
Why Talking to Your Anesthesiologist Matters
- Understand Your Options – Take time to discuss the type of anesthesia being planned for you. Knowing the approach helps you feel prepared and aware.
- Share Your Full Health Story – Be open about smoking, alcohol habits, past surgeries, allergies, or family history. Even details that feel small can significantly impact your safety and care.
- Ease Anxiety – Meeting your anesthesiologist before surgery builds trust, reduces fear, and gives you confidence going into the procedure.
- Plan for Pain Relief – Talk about pain management after surgery. Options may include epidurals, nerve blocks, or patient-controlled methods tailored to your comfort.
- Labour Analgesia Experts – Epidural analgesia is considered a miraculous way to conduct normal delivery, ensuring safe, painless childbirth through epidural techniques.
A short conversation can go a long way in making your surgical journey smoother and safer.
Take-Home Message
You must understand that your anesthesiologist is as vital as your surgeon — they are your safety partner throughout surgery. Meeting them, asking questions, and understanding their role reduces fear and empowers you to actively participate in your own care.
Dr. Niraj Mishra is an experienced Anesthesiologist and Critical Care specialist with a strong background in perioperative care, ICU management, and emergency medicine. As Director of NIAC Pvt. Ltd., he leads initiatives in hospital administration, Tele-ICU solutions, and advanced critical care services, with a focus on patient safety, quality, and innovation in healthcare delivery.