What you need to know about becoming an anaesthesiologist

Are you interested in becoming an anaesthesiologist? Professionals in this role are responsible for administering anaesthetics to sedate people in preparation for medical procedures. Looking for a new job in the medical sector? Visit Job Mail today!

Duties

Anaesthesiologists are required to collect information about the patient’s medical history, details regarding their allergies, and the medication the patient is taking. They then use this information to safely administer anaesthetics before medical procedures. They monitor the patient during the procedure but also during recovery from the anaesthetics. Anaesthesiologists can also specialise further in intensive care.

Skills

• Responsible and trustworthy
• Excellent organisational skills
• Be able to work under pressure
• Outstanding physical and mental well-being
• Patient and caring
• Ability to pay attention to detail
• Good decision-making capabilities
• Outstanding interpersonal skills

Employment opportunities

Working as an anaesthesiologist comes with a high earning potential and international employment opportunities. In South Africa, you can find employment working for the government, large private companies or in a private practice. You may also get opportunities to contribute to the development of new methods of pain control and other research programmes.

Work environment

An anaesthesiologist typically spends long hours on their feet in a hospital or clinic. These professionals usually work late hours, depending on the medical procedures that have to take place. They can also work on weekends and usually have to be on-call.

These professionals work as part of a team since they are required to consult with other medical professionals. They may also be hired as part of pain-management teams.

As an anaesthesiologist, it’s important to keep up to date with the latest research so you can expect to travel to local and international medical conferences.

Educational requirements

If you want to study to become an anaesthesiologist, you’ll need to have a senior certificate with a matric exemption. While each educational institute has different entry requirements, mathematics and physical science are often compulsory subjects. It can also be beneficial to take biology as a school subject.

To become an anaesthesiologist, you’ll need to complete five years of theoretical training followed by a student internship for one year and practical work at a hospital for one year. Next, you’ll need to complete a four-year postgraduate qualification to specialise. Before you can start your postgraduate specialisation to become an anaesthesiologist, you’ll need to have held an MBChB degree for two years and have been registered as a medical doctor for one year. Once you have qualified as an anaesthesiologist, you’ll be required to register with the IMDC before you start working.

What to study:

• MBChB Degree – Available at selected universities across South Africa.
• MMed – Available at selected universities across South Africa.

With the right skills and qualifications, you can enjoy a successful career as an anaesthesiologist. Looking for a job in the medical industry? Find a wide range of vacancies on Job Mail today.