When we think about surgery, most people imagine the surgeon as the central figure. But there’s another key expert whose role is equally critical: the anesthesiologist. At Panacea Meridian Hospitals, our anesthesiology team is the silent guardian of every procedure — working behind the scenes to ensure patient comfort, safety, and smooth surgical outcomes.
So, what does a typical day look like for an anesthesiologist at our hospital? Let’s take you behind the scenes.
6:00 AM – Early Start, Pre-Surgery Planning
Anesthesiologists begin their day early. Before the first surgery begins, they review the operation schedule, study patient records, lab reports, and pre-anesthesia assessments. They look for any health risks — such as heart conditions, diabetes, allergies, or medications — that could impact anesthesia care.
A short briefing with the surgical team follows. This ensures everyone is aligned on the plan of care, anticipated challenges, and backup protocols. At Panacea Meridian, communication is key — and it starts with mutual trust between anesthesiologist, surgeon, and nursing staff.
7:30 AM – Meeting the First Patient
Before any anesthesia is administered, our anesthesiologists personally meet with each patient. This is more than a clinical formality — it’s a chance to calm nerves, answer questions, and explain what type of anesthesia will be used.
Whether it’s general anesthesia (where the patient is fully unconscious), regional blocks (like spinal or epidural), or conscious sedation, the anesthesiologist ensures the patient is fully informed and reassured. At Panacea, compassionate care begins even before the first injection.
8:00 AM to 2:00 PM – In the Operating Room
Once surgery begins, the anesthesiologist’s full attention is on the patient. Contrary to common belief, their job doesn’t end after “putting the patient to sleep.”
They continuously monitor vital signs — heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and depth of anesthesia — adjusting medications minute by minute to keep the patient safe. Every heartbeat matters.
For longer surgeries or high-risk patients (elderly, children, or those with co-morbidities), anesthesiologists make critical decisions in real-time. They anticipate complications before they occur.
At Panacea Meridian, we use advanced monitoring systems and precision dosing technologies to support these crucial decisions.
2:00 PM to 5:00 PM – Post-Operative Care & Consultations
Once surgery concludes, the anesthesiologist carefully transitions the patient to the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). Here, they manage the patient’s wake-up process, pain control, and watch for side effects like nausea or confusion.
In addition to surgical cases, anesthesiologists may also be called for pain management consults, ICU support, and emergency procedures throughout the day. Their expertise stretches well beyond the OR.
5:30 PM – Wrapping Up, But Always On Call
By evening, most planned procedures are done — but anesthesiologists are always on standby for emergencies or overnight ICU care. Their day may end at 6 PM, or it may continue well into the night.
At Panacea Meridian, we ensure a 24/7 anesthesia care team is available — because patient safety doesn’t clock out.
The Unsung Heroes of Surgical Care
Anesthesiologists may not always be in the spotlight, but their work is nothing short of life-saving. They balance the science of medicine with the art of human care — bringing patients safely through some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.
Next time you or a loved one needs surgery, remember — an anesthesiologist will be right there with you, every second of the way.
📌 To learn more about our Anesthesiology Department or schedule a consultation, visit our Anesthesiology page.