College of Medicine and Life Sciences - Office of Student Affairs (OSA)

Medical Career Advising Resources Project - Anesthesiology

Professional Description

An anesthesiologist is trained to provide pain relief and maintenance, or restoration, of a stable condition during and immediately following an operation or 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
  • Supervise post-anesthesia recovery

Association Contact Information

  • American Society of Anesthesiologists
    1061 American Lane
    Schaumburg, IL 60173-4973
    Website

Source: American Medical Association. Graduate Medical Education Directory 2011-2012

Last Updated: 9/26/23