About
Dr. Alexander Paul Pretorius is a dedicated Anesthesiologist focused on providing safe and effective anesthesia care for surgical and medical procedures. Practicing primarily at facilities in Penticton, BC, he contributes to the surgical and procedural teams with a strong emphasis on patient safety and comfort. As a member of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), he adheres to the highest standards of medical practice. His role involves ensuring patients undergo procedures with optimal sedation, pain control, and monitoring, tailored to their individual needs.
Dr. Pretorius graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB BCh) from the University of Pretoria in 1981, South Africa. He completed extensive postgraduate training in Anesthesiology, gaining certification and experience that qualify him to deliver specialized anesthesia services. His training encompasses a broad spectrum of anesthetic techniques and patient management strategies essential for safe perioperative care.
With a calm and reassuring approach, Dr. Pretorius is committed to prioritizing patient safety and comfort in every procedure. He speaks English and Afrikaans fluently, allowing clear communication with a diverse patient population. His clinical philosophy centers on compassionate care, meticulous attention to detail, and ensuring patients feel at ease throughout their experience in the hospital or surgical center in Penticton.
- Procedural Sedation (Outside OR): Administering sedation and monitoring for procedures performed outside the main operating rooms, such as in endoscopy suites or radiology.
- Anesthesia for Outpatient/Ambulatory Surgery: Providing safe and effective anesthesia tailored for procedures where patients are expected to go home the same day.
- Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC) / Sedation: Providing varying levels of sedation (light to deep) and analgesia, combined with close monitoring of vital signs, for procedures not requiring general anesthesia.
- Regional Anesthesia Techniques: Numbing specific body regions using targeted nerve blocks (e.g., spinal, epidural, peripheral nerve blocks) for surgery or pain control, potentially allowing the patient to remain awake or sedated.
- Fluid and Blood Product Management: Administering intravenous fluids and blood products as needed during procedures to maintain hemodynamic stability.
Note: This list outlines typical areas of anesthetic practice. The specific anesthetic plan for your procedure will be determined by Dr. Pretorius (or an associate) in consultation with you and your surgeon/proceduralist based on your health and the requirements of the procedure. Subspecialty services like chronic pain management may require a separate referral pathway.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).
Dr. Pretorius practices primarily at medical facilities in the Penticton Central, South End, Kaledon, Okanagan Falls, and Naramata Bench neighborhoods of Penticton. The practice is conveniently located near Skaha Lake Park & Beach, offering a serene environment for patients. Accessibility is facilitated via the South Okanagan-Similkameen Transit System (BC Transit). The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for anesthesia care with Dr. Pretorius? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medically necessary anesthesia services provided by specialists like Dr. Pretorius during provincially insured surgical or medical procedures are typically covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). Pre-anesthetic consultations related to these procedures are also usually covered. Fees for specific uninsured services (e.g., certain non-medically required procedures, form completion) may apply based on provincial guidelines. Please confirm coverage with Medical Services Plan (MSP) for specific circumstances. In most cases, MSP covers the anesthesia related to insured procedures.
- Can I directly request Dr. Pretorius for my anesthesia?
- While you can discuss preferences with your surgeon, the assignment of an Anesthesiologist is typically managed by the hospital's anesthesia department or the surgical group based on scheduling, expertise required, and availability. Your surgeon arranges the necessary anesthesia care, which includes consultation with an anesthesiologist like Dr. Pretorius from the team covering your procedure.
- What happens in the recovery room (PACU)?
- After your procedure under general or regional anesthesia/sedation, you will be taken to the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU), also known as the recovery room. Specially trained nurses will closely monitor your breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen level, and level of consciousness as you wake up. They will also manage any immediate pain or nausea under the guidance of the anesthesia team.
550 Carmi Ave, Penticton Regional Hospital
Penticton, BC V2A 3G6
Phone: (250) 490-5159
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Pretorius is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Anesthesia services are typically arranged through the hospital or clinic where your procedure is scheduled.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/327870/Pretorius%2CAlexander