Attitudes of a good anaesthetist

• Puts patient welfare first: shows commitment, compassion and self-sacrifice
• Proactive: pre-empts problems as much as possible, conscientious, not careless or apathetic
• Personal integrity: espoused values match enacted values
• Circumspect: careful, holistic approach to risk, avoids unncessary procedures of little benefit, prudent
• Prioritises well
• Communicates clearly and effectively with patients and colleagues, uses ‘adult to adult’ approach
• Keen to learn: inquisitive, challenges/tests orthodoxy
• Non-discriminatory in terms of race, colour or creed
• Strives for high levels of competency, recognises limits, not reckless, pragmatic
• Shows good leadership
• Well-balanced: calm, maintains self-control, doesn’t panic, values others’ input

Anesthetist Working In Operating Theatre Wearing Protecive Gear checking monitors while sedating patient before surgical procedure in hospital