Title: PS59(A) Position statement on roles in anaesthesia and perioperative care 2015
Author: Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists
About
ANZCA's position statement delves into the roles and responsibilities within teams handling anaesthesia and perioperative care. It stresses the need for high-quality, structured care. The statement also tackles current healthcare challenges, such as demographic shifts and resource constraints.
The statement by ANZCA proposes innovative approaches to improve patient safety and the quality of care. It emphasises the critical role played by specialist anaesthetists in administering anaesthesia. A significant part of the statement is dedicated to the development of new roles within these teams. These roles are expected to meet patient safety and care quality standards.
This position statement acts as a detailed guide, shedding light on the changing aspects of anaesthesia and perioperative care. It provides perspectives on how roles can adapt in the face of evolving healthcare needs. There is an emphasis on balancing innovation with a strong commitment to patient safety.
Author
The position statement is from the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists, a leading organisation in anaesthesia and pain medicine. ANZCA is responsible for training and accrediting anaesthetists in Australia and New Zealand. They uphold high standards in their fields and are involved in research, professional development, and policy making.
Key Takeaways
- Structured Care for Safety and Quality
There is a need for structured anaesthesia and perioperative care for patient safety and high-quality outcomes. - Medical Role of Anaesthesia
Anaesthesia is primarily a medical role, demanding extensive training and expertise. - Emphasis on Task Delegation
Advocates for innovative workforce models that focus on delegating tasks to enhance efficiency in care. - Importance of Skilled Teamwork
A skilled multidisciplinary team is necessary to ensure patient safety and successful outcomes. - Systematic Introduction of New Roles
Encourages a systematic and evidence-based approach for introducing new roles, with a focus on patient safety and sustainable workforce models.
Role of Nurses in Anaesthesia
The statement explains that in Australia and New Zealand, there is no role of nurse anaesthetist, as known in countries like the United States. Instead, anaesthesia is administered by a team led by specialist anaesthetists. These doctors have undergone extensive training, typically a minimum of seven years post medical school graduation.
Nurses in these countries assist in the anaesthesia process, but they do not independently administer anaesthesia. This arrangement highlights the focus on medical expertise and specialised training in the field of anaesthesia. It reflects the healthcare systems of Australia and New Zealand, where anaesthesia is a medical role.