Just before the outbreak of COVID-19, I underwent a scheduled minor surgery. I was fearful about the experience until a kind, compassionate anesthesiologist transformed my fear into a calm sense of well-being. His clear conveyance of information and his heartfelt presence put me at ease. He assured me that he would be present during my whole procedure and would take exceptional care of me. The last thing I remember before falling asleep was his gentle invitation to rest well and have a sweet dream. And it was so.
Today's COVID-19 pandemic has required anesthesiologists to evolve into so much more than the calming presence I appreciated during my surgical procedure. For many patients and their families, anesthesiologists represent a physical lifeline to breath by way of a ventilator, particularly for patients with COVID-19 who require intubation and ventilator support. When treating critically ill patients whose family members cannot be with...
