The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) recognizes 2013 Patient Safety Awareness Week, March 3-9. Over the past century, anesthesiologists have led research, science and technology advancements to make anesthesia safer than ever for you and your loved ones.
Advancements in patient safety
The advancements by physicians to improve the specialty of anesthesiology have consistently improved the quality of care and safety patients receive before, during and after surgery.
In addition, the establishment of the Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation and the Anesthesia Quality Institute has helped anesthesiologists assess and improve patient care, along with the Society’s more than 100 practice standards, guidelines, statements and practice parameters.
Physician-led care
As you prepare for surgery that involves anesthesia, you can feel confident that anesthesiologists have made the safety of your care their highest priority. Anesthesiologists make critical life decisions when there are only seconds to make them as leaders of Anesthesia Care Teams.
With at least 10,000 hours of specialized medical education and training, anesthesiologists watch over you to monitor, protect and safeguard your vital life functions in the operating room, procedure room, intensive care unit and pain clinic. When a physician supervises your anesthesia care, you can have peace of mind knowing that your safety is in well trained and skilled hands.
Share your patient safety story
Was your life saved by the advanced medical education and training of an anesthesiologist? Share your story at communications@asahq.org.
Campaign materials
ASA Recognizes Patient Safety Awareness Week (press release)
Timeline: Advances in Anesthesia Care (11x17 poster)
Three Tips to Make Your Hospital Stay Safer (syndicated article)
Patient Safety Awareness Week Audio Files: