Throughout the surgical process - from pre-surgical admission until a patient is moved into recovery, Akron General anesthesiologists works with surgeons, other specialists and a team of nurses to ensure the patient's safety and comfort. Most people think that an anesthesiologist simply administers the medication, called anesthesia, which helps patients fall asleep for a surgery and remain pain-free. Anesthesiologists play another important role on the surgical team. They work with medication, technology and other healthcare professionals to ensure that vital body functions, such as breathing, heart rate, blood pressure and brain and kidney functions are stable and at safe levels during procedures.. Before surgery,the anesthesiologist evaluates the patient's medical condition. He or she then creates an individualized plan for care to monitor the patients organ systems and administer anesthetic medication during the procedure and recovery. An anesthesiologist manages and treats medical issues just before surgery,during the procedure and while the patient is in recovery. An irregular heart rhythm or diabetes are just two types of conditions,the anesthesiologist must take into consideration. During a surgery or procedure,an anesthesiologist may administer medication so that the patient is completely asleep,or they may give the patient just a regional nerve block,so that they are conscious and able to answer questions or perform certain tasks. An epidural,given during delivery of a baby,is just one example of a regional nerve block.