All fields of anesthesiology require precision and attention to detail, but trauma anesthesiology brings another level of stress. Working with trauma patients increases the urgency, unpredictability and sometimes the stakes themselves.
These unique demands require that providers specializing in trauma anesthesia are equipped both with the knowledge and the skills to handle such situations. At CCI Anesthesia, that’s what we help trauma anesthesiologists and CRNAs develop.
Working in a Demanding Setting
Trauma anesthesia is a uniquely demanding setting if you’re an anesthesiologist or CRNA.
High-Stakes Anesthesia
Trauma anesthesia is one of the more high-stakes subspecialties in which you can work. Any mistake in anesthesia care can potentially be life-threatening, but that’s doubly true when caring for patients with the most serious conditions. Trauma/emergency anesthesia, cardiac anesthesia, neuroanesthesia and critical care anesthesia are some subspecialties with higher stakes.
Time-Sensitive Care
Almost no subspecialty has the same critical urgency as trauma or emergency care. Any delay in providing anesthesia could delay other care, and seconds matter when a patient presents with a gunshot, life-threatening injuries from a car accident, or a heart attack. There’s not a moment to lose. While it’s possible in any setting that anesthesiologists and CRNAs have to take quick action, the time pressure begins immediately when a patient enters a trauma center.
Uncertain Situations
The nature of trauma and emergency care also makes this the most unpredictable anesthesia subspecialty. You never know exactly what will come through the emergency room doors, and sometimes don’t have any advance notice from an ambulance.
The uncertainty continues throughout much of a patient’s care. Trauma care providers, anesthesia and otherwise, need to be prepared for unexpected complications, unknown underlying issues, possible drug interactions (legal or illegal) and more.
