World Anaesthesia Day: What happens to patients beyond the operating table

When patients enter an operating theatre, their focus is typically on the surgeon performing the operation. However, another critical role comes into play as the procedure unfolds: that of the anaesthetist. These medical professionals constantly monitor patients' vital signs, respond to changes, and ensure their safety throughout the surgery.

As the world commemorates World Anaesthesia Day on Friday, October 16, 2026, Antony Gacuca, an anaesthetist, emphasizes that the work of anaesthesia providers extends far beyond simply putting patients to sleep. Gacuca explains that anaesthesia involves three key elements: pain relief, reduced awareness, and muscle relaxation, all while closely monitoring the body's vital functions.

His role begins even before a patient steps into the operating room, where he assesses the patient, conducts safety checks, and anticipates potential risks during the procedure. Once surgery commences, the anaesthetist continuously monitors vital functions, manages airway and breathing, regulates circulation and fluid balance, administers medications safely, and swiftly handles any complications.

The responsibility continues as the patient emerges from anaesthesia and transitions to postoperative care. Gacuca stresses that patient safety during surgery is paramount, requiring anticipating risks, monitoring vital functions, and responding promptly to any changes before they become dangerous. While surgeons concentrate on the operation, anaesthetists must remain vigilant about the patient's condition throughout the entire procedure.

Gacuca hopes to dispel common patient fears, such as not waking up after surgery or becoming conscious during the operation. He reassures patients that these concerns are understandable and that trust between patients and healthcare providers is vital. "Your fear is understandable, and you are not alone. Many patients worry about whether they will wake up, feel pain, or face any complications during anaesthesia," Gacuca says.

He emphasizes treating patients as individuals who place their trust in the medical team, not just as cases on an operating table. Gacuca highlights several challenges facing the anaesthesia profession, including shortages of trained personnel, limited equipment and monitoring facilities, unreliable supplies of medicines and oxygen, and insufficient training and mentorship opportunities.

These factors can hinder healthcare teams from delivering the necessary monitoring and support for safe anaesthesia. He believes addressing these challenges requires increasing the number of trained providers, ensuring reliable medical supplies, providing adequate equipment, and offering stronger professional development opportunities.

Gacuca emphasizes that safe surgical outcomes depend on more than just the operation itself; they rely on the people and resources supporting patients throughout the entire process. For Gacuca, the responsibility of anaesthesia extends beyond the operating table, encompassing patient protection, communication about fears, and ensuring comprehensive postoperative care.