Your anesthesia team is usually led by a physician anesthesiologist, a doctor who specializes in anesthesia, pain control, and critical care. The team may also include nurse anesthetists, anesthesiologist assistants, resident physicians, nurses, operating department practitioners, and other trained staff who help before, during, and after surgery. The exact mix can vary by hospital.

Before surgery, the team reviews your health history and makes an anesthesia plan. During surgery, they monitor your breathing, heart rate, and other body systems. After surgery, they help wake you up, treat side effects, and manage pain. In the ASA sources, the physician anesthesiologist is responsible for leading the team and overseeing your anesthesia care and recovery.

Some staff may be in training, such as residents or students, but they should be supervised. Verify the exact plan with your surgical or anesthesia team in case they want something different for you.