Page 37 - 2022 Risk Basics - Anesthesiology

SVMIC Risk Basics: Anesthesiology

 Upon transfer to the medical-surgical unit, the

anesthesiologist should ensure proper orders for the care
of the epidural are in place

 Anesthesia should have a protocol for removal of
indwelling catheters that also specifically addresses

patients on anticoagulants

 Anesthesia should document their postoperative

assessments and visits to the patient until the epidural is

removed

The most prevalent communication issues involved

breakdowns in communications between the physician (which

could be the surgeon or anesthesiologist) and CRNA.
Examples include a difficult intubation where apparently the

anesthesiologist was unavailable. The anesthesiologist has
oversight liability for the CRNA. The CRNA and the

anesthesiologist need to communicate regarding any plans for

a difficult intubation and the anesthesiologist should be
available for induction.

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