There should be an identified group of senior anaesthetists who manage and deliver a comprehensive ophthalmic anaesthesia service, including the use of orbital regional anaesthetic techniques.2
Where an AA is primarily responsible for the provision of anaesthesia, a named anaesthetic consultant or autonomously practising anaesthetist should have overall responsibility for the care of the patient during anaesthesia.15
All anaesthetists working in ophthalmic services should have access to continuing educational and professional development facilities for advancing their knowledge and practical skills associated with ophthalmic anaesthesia.44
The standard of monitoring equipment while performing regional anaesthesia should comply with Association of Anaesthetists’ standards of monitoring during anaesthesia and recovery document.32
Access for preoperative assessment staff to multidisciplinary teams support from other physicians, medical specialists, anaesthetists, surgeons and pain management teams should be available.12
Adequate recovery room facilities that comply with the Association of Anaesthetists’ recommendations for standards of monitoring during anaesthesia and recovery should be available within the delivery suite theatre complex.43
All anaesthetists working in ophthalmic services should have access to continuing educational and professional development facilities for advancing their knowledge and practical skills associated with ophthalmic anaesthesia.38
All anaesthetic equipment should be checked before use in accordance with the Association of Anaesthetists published guidelines.32 Anaesthetic machine checks should be recorded in a log and on the anaesthetic chart.
Each unit should have a designated clinical lead (see glossary) anaesthetist who is responsible for cardiac anaesthesia services. This should be recognised in their job plan and they should be involved in multidisciplinary service planning and governance within the unit.
