What Types of Special Training Do They Receive? What Type of Care Can You Expect?
When a child suffers an injury or disease that requires surgery, that child typically must undergo anesthesia, just as an adult would. Infants and children, though, react differently to anesthesia than adults do. Furthermore, because a child’s brain is still developing, anesthesia must be carefully administered and the child must be closely monitored at all times. A pediatric anesthesiologist is specially trained to administer anesthesia to children.
What Is a Pediatric Anesthesiologist?
A pediatric anesthesiologist is a medical specialist who focuses their practice on pre-operative and operative care for infants and children, particularly in the administration of medication to facilitate surgical procedures. A pediatric anesthesiologist monitors the patient during surgery and provides post-operative care and treatment.
What Training Does a Pediatric Anesthesiologist Receive?
Pediatric anesthesiologists are medical doctors who have additional, focused education in the use of anesthesia on children. They have a four-year medical degree and have completed a one-year internship and three years of residency in anesthesiology. They are certified by the American Board of Anesthesiologists and must complete additional specialized training in pediatric anesthesiology.
What Kind of Care Can You Expect from a Pediatric Anesthesiologist?
A pediatric anesthesiologist becomes involved in a child’s care long before surgery is performed. You can expect a thorough evaluation, as the pediatric anesthesiologist identifies any particular health concerns or potential allergies. The pediatric anesthesiologist administers the necessary medication in preparation for a surgical procedure and monitors the child’s vital signs and general well-being throughout the operation. The pediatric anesthesiologist also closely monitors the child throughout recovery, providing pain management drugs, if necessary.
When Is a Pediatric Anesthesiologist Necessary?
There is debate within the medical community as to when a pediatric anesthesiologist may be required. While the trend is toward bringing in pediatric anesthesiologists for the treatment of most minors and virtually all infants and toddlers, there are also medical experts who believe that pediatric anesthesiologists are only necessary when the child has known health issues. Current estimates indicate less than 5,000 trained pediatric anesthesiologists throughout the United States, making staffing and availability potentially challenging.
