What does an Anaesthetist do?
Apart from anaesthesia, Anaesthetists scope of practice includes pain management and intensive care. Besides working in operating theatres, they also treat patients in chronic pain clinics and provide sedation for individuals who are receiving radiology and radiotherapy. They also sedate patients in psychiatric wards who are undergoing electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
Some Anaesthetists work closely together with emergency Physicians to provide care for patients in intensive care units. Most Anaesthetists develop their skills in a subspecialty of surgical practice, critical care or pain management, for example in childbirth or chronic pain.
Anaesthetist skills and qualifications
Apart from medical expertise, Anaesthetists need excellent communication skills to effectively work together with other health professionals. This includes strong verbal communication skills to clearly relay information and the ability to actively listen to fellow employees, other specialists and patients. A successful Anaesthetist candidate will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications:
- The ability to remain calm and collected under pressure and during crisis situations
- Healthy coping mechanisms to combat stress and also emotional and physical fatigue
- A considerate and caring attitude to put the minds of patients at ease and provide the best possible care
- Excellent observational skills to notice when complications or problems arise in sedated patients
- Strong decision-making skills to act effectively during emergencies
- Knowledge of emergency protocols and guidelines
- Attention to detail to ensure that they administer the correct dosage of anaesthetics to patients
Anaesthetist experience requirements
Before an Anaesthetist is allowed to practise, they undergo many years of practical on-the-job training. Employers are therefore often willing to employ newly qualified Anaesthetists. However, many employers also require that applicants have proven experience in relevant areas. Depending on the position, candidates may need to show experience in working in a multidisciplinary work environment or in an intensive care unit, for instance. Some employers may also require that candidates have the ability to teach clinical skills to trainees.
Anaesthetist education and training requirements
Anaesthetists need to complete a five-year degree programme in medicine that’s recognised by the General Medical Council (GMC). This is followed by a two-year foundation training programme to qualify as a registered Medical Practitioner. Candidates then enter a postgraduate training programme in anaesthesia, which typically lasts seven to eight years. During this time, they must pass the Fellowship of the Royal College of Anaesthetics (FRCA) examination. Once they have completed their specialist training, candidates obtain a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT). This enables them to join the specialist register of the GMC and apply for consultant-level posts.
Anaesthetist salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for an Anaesthetist in the UK is £92,380 per year. Salaries vary, depending on factors like location and level of experience.
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