Anesthesiology
Anesthesiology is the medical specialty focused on providing safe and comfortable care for patients before, during and after surgeries and procedures. At TidalHealth, our specialists are trained in pain relief, airway and breathing management, resuscitation, and comprehensive care for people who are critically ill. Our scope of care covers perioperative medicine, acute and chronic pain management, and support for patients in critical care.
Scope of Care
Our anesthesiology team is responsible for:
- Preoperative assessment and preparation to address medical conditions
- Selection and administration of the most suitable anesthesia, such as general, regional, local, or monitored sedation
- Ongoing patient monitoring and management of vital functions during procedures
- Immediate recovery support after surgery, including pain control and comfort management
- Ongoing care for complex pain needs or critical conditions
Who We Care For
TidalHealth anesthesiologists care for people of all ages and backgrounds, from those having minor procedures to individuals with high-risk medical needs undergoing major surgery. Our team supports special populations, including children, pregnant individuals, older adults with multiple health conditions, and patients in intensive care.
Our Team Approach
Our care is delivered by a multidisciplinary team, including anesthesiologists, certified registered nurse anesthetists, nurses, surgical technologists, pharmacists, respiratory therapists, and critical care staff. We work closely with surgeons and other providers to ensure anesthesia plans are individualized based on each patient’s medical history, procedure type, and preferences.
What to Expect
Before your procedure, you will meet with an anesthesiology provider for a pre-anesthesia evaluation to review your medical history, medications, allergies, and any concerns you may have. On the day of surgery, our team will explain your anesthesia plan, begin monitoring, and provide medications to help you remain comfortable and safe. Following your procedure, you will recover in a specially equipped area where we manage pain, nausea, breathing, and vital signs until you are stable. Our team also offers specialized services, such as regional nerve blocks, epidurals for labor, and sedation for outpatient procedures when appropriate.
Safety and Individualized Planning
Modern anesthesia is very safe, thanks to advances in monitoring, medication, and ongoing training. Our anesthesiologists thoroughly discuss benefits, potential complications, and how we work with you and your loved ones to minimize risks. We help optimize existing health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart and lung disease, and plan for your pain control and recovery after the procedure.
What does an anesthesiologist do?
TidalHealth anesthesiologists manage your pain, level of consciousness, breathing, and vital functions during surgeries and procedures. They perform preoperative assessments, create personalized anesthesia plans, monitor you during surgery, and oversee your recovery and pain control after the procedure.
How is the type of anesthesia chosen?
The choice depends on the procedure, your health history, personal preferences, and risk factors. Options include general anesthesia, regional anesthesia like nerve or spinal/epidural blocks, local anesthesia for a small area, or sedation. Your TidalHealth anesthesiologist will explain what is safest and most comfortable for you.
Is anesthesia safe?
Yes, anesthesia is generally very safe because of modern medications, monitoring technology, and highly trained teams. If you have serious health concerns or need a complex surgery, your team will discuss specific risks and steps taken to reduce them.
Will I be aware or feel pain during my operation?
If you receive general anesthesia, you should be completely unconscious and not feel pain. With regional anesthesia or sedation, you may be relaxed or lightly asleep, but TidalHealth staff make sure the surgical area is numb and you stay comfortable.
How should I prepare for anesthesia?
Follow fasting instructions, usually no solid food six to eight hours before and clear liquids up to two hours before, unless told otherwise. Bring a current list of your medications and allergies and tell your anesthesiologist about any past reactions to anesthesia. You may be asked to adjust certain medications, such as blood thinners or diabetes medicines.
What are common side effects after anesthesia?
Common side effects include drowsiness, sore throat, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, and muscle aches. Most of these improve within hours to a few days. Your care team manages these side effects and your pain as you recover.
Who provides anesthesia care?
At TidalHealth, care is directed by anesthesiologists, who may work with certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs). Both are experienced in anesthesia and will explain their roles before your procedure.
How is pain managed after surgery?
Your anesthesiologist and surgeon develop a pain control plan that may include oral or intravenous medications, regional techniques like nerve blocks or epidurals, and non-opioid options to reduce side effects whenever possible. The goal is to support your recovery and comfort.
Can anesthesia affect memory or thinking long-term?
Short-term confusion or grogginess is common, especially for older adults, but long-term effects are rare. Patients with existing memory problems or those having major operations may have a higher risk. Please discuss any concerns with your anesthesiologist so we can make a plan that supports your needs.
What if I have a difficult airway or complex health conditions?
TidalHealth anesthesiologists are specially trained to handle airways that may be challenging and complex health concerns. Before your procedure, we carefully assess your risks, prepare equipment and backup plans, and coordinate with other specialists as needed to provide safe care.
