Residents Program

Obstetric Anesthesia Residents Program
British Columbia Women’s Hospital

Overall Educational Objectives as Key Competencies

Medical Expert

  • Understand the physiologic changes of pregnancy in the parturient: throughout all stages of pregnancy, delivery and the postpartum period.
  • Understand the anatomy and physiology of the fetoplacental unit; the effects of anesthetic drugs on the fetus, uterine perfusion and the uterus.
  • Have in-depth knowledge of the considerations for the safe use of regional and general anesthesia in the pregnant patient in health and disease, including anesthetic management of:
    • elective and emergency Cesarean sections
    • preterm labour
    • pregnancy-induced hypertension
    • multiple gestations
    • fetal malpresentation
    • ante and postpartum hemorrhage
    • common maternal coexisting illness: diabetes, asthma (PG 2-3 level)
    • uncommon maternal medical problems, the difficult airway in Obstetrics, cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the pregnant patient
  • Understand the methods used for fetal monitoring, as well as the principles of neonatal resuscitation.
  • Have in-depth knowledge of the analgesic options for pain control during labour and delivery, including knowledge of:
    • pain pathways
    • pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic options for pain control
    • technical expertise in the provision of the above
    • management of complications associated with above

Communicator

  • Establish a professional relationship with patients and families, including:
    • demonstrating appropriate consideration and compassion
    • consideration of factors such as age, ethnic and socioeconomic background
    • providing accurate information appropriate to the situation
    • ensuring informed consent prior to undertaking invasive procedures
  • Effectively communicate with all members of the Birthing Unit team.
    • effective verbal communication skills
    • written communication skills: concise and clear recording and documentation of all patient interactions

Collaborator

  • Consult effectively with obstetrician, neo and perinatologist, midwife and Birthing Unit nurses to assure optimal management of patients.
  • Work effectively as an integral member of the Birthing Unit team.
  • Function effectively in the Birthing unit utilizing the abilities of all team members, includes the ability to resolve conflicts, provide feedback and assume a leadership role where appropriate.

Manager

  • Be able to utilize resources effectively to provide anesthesia services to the Birthing unit simultaneously with other areas of in hospital coverage.
  • Practice according to national standards and provincial guidelines for the management of Obstetrical patients.

Health Advocate

  • Provide expertise and leadership in maintaining and improving the standards of obstetrical anesthesia practice and patient care.
  • Act as an advocate for quality management of pain during labour and delivery and improved patient safety.

Scholar

  • Have the ability to critically review the literature to understand and evaluate new information and research.
  • Contribute to the learning of others.
  • Contribute to new knowledge, when possible.

Professional

  • Deliver the highest quality care with integrity, honesty and compassion.
  • Demonstrate appropriate respect for the opinions of patients and team members in the provision of quality obstetrical care.

Download the Resident Orientation Package