The work of an anaesthesiologist is more than just to put us to sleep

At all stages of surgery, the anaesthesiologist monitors a patient’s vital signs, which include blood pressure, heart rate, electrocardiogram, oxygen saturation and ventilation, as well as temperature and fluid status of the patient. Photo: AFP

In conjunction with World Anaesthesia Day (Oct 16), it is timely for us to be aware of the role anaesthesiologists play in the healthcare system.

This year marks the 170th anniversary of the discovery of anaesthesia.