Physicians' assistant (anaesthesia)

Physicians' Assistant (Anaesthesia) is a healthcare professional who works under the direct supervision of a Consultant Anaesthetist to assist in the delivery of high standards of patient care during anaesthesia. The role was developed in the United Kingdom to extend the anaesthetic workforce and improve the efficiency of the anaesthetic service. Physicians' Assistants (Anaesthesia) are part of a wider team that includes anaesthetists, nurses, and operating department practitioners.

Role and Responsibilities

The primary role of a Physicians' Assistant (Anaesthesia) is to support the anaesthetist during pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative phases. Their responsibilities include:

• Preparing the anaesthetic room and equipment
• Assisting with patient monitoring
• Administering drugs under the supervision of an anaesthetist
• Assisting in the management of airways
• Providing support in emergency situations

Physicians' Assistants (Anaesthesia) work closely with patients, providing information and reassurance before procedures. They play a crucial role in ensuring that the anaesthetic equipment is functioning correctly and that all necessary preparations are made for the anaesthetic procedure.

Training and Qualification

Training for Physicians' Assistants (Anaesthesia) in the UK is a postgraduate diploma or MSc programme that typically lasts two years. The course includes theoretical learning, practical skills development, and clinical placements in various anaesthetic settings. Applicants must have a background in a relevant healthcare profession, such as nursing or paramedicine.

Upon successful completion of the training programme, Physicians' Assistants (Anaesthesia) must register with the Anaesthetists' Assistant Register maintained by the Association of Anaesthetists. Although not currently regulated by a statutory body, efforts are ongoing to achieve formal recognition and regulation for the profession.

Scope of Practice

The scope of practice for Physicians' Assistants (Anaesthesia) is defined by local policies and the supervising anaesthetist. They are not independent practitioners and must work under the direction of a Consultant Anaesthetist. Their scope includes tasks such as assisting with general and regional anaesthesia, patient monitoring, and emergency response within the anaesthetic context.

Challenges and Future Directions

The introduction of Physicians' Assistants (Anaesthesia) has been met with both support and challenges. Advocates argue that they provide valuable support to anaesthetic teams, especially in areas with workforce shortages. Critics, however, raise concerns about the extent of their training and the potential for role confusion with other healthcare professionals.

The future of the profession may see expanded roles and responsibilities, contingent upon regulatory developments and the evolving needs of the healthcare system. There is also a growing interest in establishing similar roles in other countries to address global anaesthetic workforce challenges.

See Also

• Anaesthesia
• Anaesthetist
• Operating Department Practitioner
• Nurse Anaesthetist

‎